The NHS Forest will be launching its national Tree Sponsorship Scheme to the public on the 24th January, at the London Carbon Reduction Network meeting, making it possible for anyone in the UK to sponsor a tree in their local NHS Forest sites. The NHS Forest creates recuperative forests throughout the NHS to aid patient recovery, boost staff morale, provide areas where patients can come to terms with their condition and enable us all to reconnect with “our NHS”.

Barney Jenkins, Director at OxTreeGen, said, “It is a fact that being close to or within sight of green space helps patient recovery and improves staff well-being. Just these two benefits will see a significant reduction in costs to the NHS and if the resulting improvement in air quality and the involvement of patients nurturing these sites is factored in then the NHS Forest becomes a necessary part of any future NHS, no matter what shape the current reforms take.”

Rachel Stancliffe, the Director of the Centre for Sustainable Healthcare, said: “Seeing trees from your hospital bed, or as you walk to your work at the hospital, or as a symbol of thanks for the staff from a grateful patient will make the world of difference. If you or a loved one has ever been cared for at a hospital and you would like to give something back then sponsoring a tree is an ideal way to show your support.”

To sponsor your tree visit www.nhsforest.oxtreegen.com