With 20% of people in the Northwest suffering from a long term limiting illness, a higher proportion than any other region, there is an urgent need to improve public health. The World Health Organisation has long defined ‘health’ as being not just the absence of disease, but a state of complete physical, mental and social well being.

By creating and encouraging access to high quality woodland, The Mersey Forest has become a key resource in the battle to improve public health across the region.

The positive effects that forests can have on health are amazing. The Mersey Forest Partnership is now working closely with health agencies in the North West to use forestry as a way of tackling rising coronary disease and obesity by encouraging people to keep active by walking, jogging, cycling and other outdoor recreation.

Research has shown that well-wooded areas have a positive impact on our well being too. Forests are now being used as a way of alleviating stress and depression, and accelerating post hospital recovery.

And at the same time woodlands provide the lungs for our towns and cities by filtering pollution and absorbing carbon and creating shade.

To find out how this work fits into The Mersey Forest's strategy, click here.