Singer Charlotte Church is leading calls for people across the country to take part in this year’s 30 Days Wild, an annual initiative by The Wildlife Trusts encouraging those of all ages to connect with nature throughout the month of June.
This year’s campaign is also being backed by the Greener NHS programme at NHS England as part of its 75th birthday celebrations.
‘The more time I spend in nature, the more obsessed I become with it,’ said Ms Church. ‘30 Days Wild is such a wonderful idea – it’s an easy way to spend a bit of time connecting with nature every day in June and there are so many options.
‘Whether it’s stargazing, watching a flower bloom or listening to the soothing sound of the wind rustling through tree branches, it’s about finding things you enjoy and resting your mind. I’m looking forward to tuning in to birdsong and cold-water swimming.
‘So, sign up and invite your friends and family to join in the fun too!’
Spending time in nature has been proven to benefit both physical and mental health, with those who connect with nature every day found to be more resilient and to experience less social isolation and loneliness – alongside better all-round health and happiness.
‘Being in and around nature is so important for our health and happiness, whether that’s exercising outdoors, breakfasting in the garden, or lying in the park and enjoying the birds’ said Dr Amir Khan, presenter, NHS doctor and vice-president of The Wildlife Trusts.
‘I am delighted the NHS is encouraging people to get outside this June. Taking time each day to pause and purposefully observe and enjoy nature can do wonders for our wellbeing, while motivating us to do our bit to help wildlife. I urge people right across the British Isles to get involved in 30 Days Wild this year!’
Of participants who took part in last year’s 30 Days Wild, 74% said the challenge improved their mental health, 76% said it improved their relationship with nature, and 81% were motivated to do more to protect nature.
More than 3million people have taken part in the challenge since it began in 2015. A study by The Wildlife Trusts and the University of Derby in 2020 revealed a 30% improvement in people’s mental health after taking part.
Other supporters of 30 Days Wild include TV presenters Liz Bonnin, Ellie Harrison, Monty Don and Steve Backshall.
Mya-Rose Craig, environmentalist and ambassador for The Wildlife Trusts, said: ‘I can’t wait to get involved with 30 Days Wild this summer. I’m really into birds and birdwatching so I’ll be on the lookout for some special sightings, but also love finding new ways to reconnect with nature.
‘The 30 Days Wild challenge is a brilliant way to explore and develop our relationship with the outdoors and to enjoy new experiences in the fresh air. I’d love everyone, whatever their age or background, to go outside and enjoy some quality time in nature.’
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