Explore free nature-based groups and activities with the Rushcliffe Big Green Book
Last updated: 17/1/2024
The third edition of a directory that details nature-based activity providers and green spaces in Rushcliffe is now available to encourage more people to explore local nature and improve their mental and physical health.
The Rushcliffe Big Green Book gives a wealth of local contacts and information to help groups and individuals find great new health and wellbeing opportunities on their doorstep in the Borough.
To view the latest version on the Rushcliffe Primary Care Network website.
It features a range of activities such as walking routes, cycling and exercise groups, coffee meetups, wildlife and environmental links, gardening, allotment, food sharing and leisure opportunities at local waterways, parks and open spaces.
There is also additional information on staying active, building strength and details on the health benefits of physical activity including improved sleep, maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress and more.
The concept is designed to be used by social prescribers and healthcare workers who want to find activities for their patients, as well as individuals who are looking for local community groups to get involved in.
Edwalton Manor Care Home discovered the Friends of Sharphill Wood through the book and since have offered their meeting space facilities to support the group.
Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Wellbeing, ICT and Member Development Cllr Jonathan Wheeler said: “The book is being really well received. It is a great example of linking residents to find opportunities to support people engaging in nature based interventions and activities.
“It’s fantastic to see Edwalton Manor Care Home and the Friends of Sharphill Woods have made a connection through the Rushcliffe Big Green Book.
“After a really positive start, I’m pleased we’re now in the third edition of the book which includes even more useful resources and information to help people look after themselves, meet new people and connect with nature.
“The directory also supports Rushcliffe working towards becoming a Dementia Friendly Borough by encouraging providers to obtain the ‘Dementia Friendly’ badge, helping to raise awareness of dementia and reduce barriers for people in local communities living with dementia.”
Hamberley Care Homes who run the care home were equally positive with its impact.
Regional Community Relations Lead Matthew Brown added: “I first spotted Friends of Sharphill Woods in the Rushcliffe Big Green Book and thought I would reach out to them to see how we may be able to contribute to the good work that they do.
“As a business we are always keen to get involved with local initiatives and try and give back a little where we can. This can be in different ways depending on need whether it be the use of our fabulous facilities, sponsorship or voluntary work.”
Friends of Sharphill Wood Chairman Chrissie Wells said: “We appreciate the opportunity to be included in the Big Green Book which serves as a great communication and networking tool to ensure that as many people as possible gain the health benefits of working outdoors.
“At the same time, being able to conserve and protect this beautiful and fragile resource is invaluable to the West Bridgford and Edwalton communities.
“Thanks to Matt of Edwalton Manor Care Home for offering us facilities and support after he spotted us in the BGB! That’s the way things work best when the different sectors work together.”
For any questions on the Big Green Book, partnership work or sponsor opportunities, email rushcliffebiggreenbook@gmail.com
The book is delivered in partnership with Rushcliffe Borough Council, Rushcliffe Primary Care Network and the Nottingham Community and Voluntary Service (NCVS) and sets out local activities and groups across the Borough to help people choose an activity that is local and easily accessible to them.
It has been developed as part of the GreenSpace Green Social Prescribing Project that focuses on improving people’s mental health, in line with the national Green Social Prescribing initiative.
Green Social Prescribing provides a way of connecting people to nature-based activities and green groups, projects and schemes in their local community for support with health and wellbeing.