Edge Hill University has reinforced its commitment to community wellbeing by hosting its third successful Dose of Nature Walk on the Ormskirk campus.
Inspiring Partnership for Mental Health
The event featured a special appearance from Mike Palmer of Three Dads Walking, a group formed after Palmer, Tim Owen and Andy Airey tragically lost their daughters to suicide. The organisation works tirelessly to raise awareness about young suicide and mental health while supporting the charity PAPYRUS, Prevention of Young Suicide.
Mike Palmer emphasised the profound connection between walking and talking: "Walking and talking go together. The value of getting into the great outdoors should never be underestimated, and to encourage young people into open and supportive conversations will help create positive behaviours that will last a lifetime."
University's Natural Health Service
The walk drew upon the research of Professor Michelle Howarth and her groundbreaking work, 'Time for a Natural Health Service,' which explores integrating nature into traditional medical care to boost mental health and overall wellbeing.
Professor Howarth expressed her delight at the event's success: "This is our third Dose of Nature Walk, and I am delighted that Mike Palmer, one of the inspirational Three Dads Walking, will be joining us. Mike's powerful advocacy for suicide prevention and mental health awareness has touched so many lives."
Jacqueline Leigh, interim associate dean for student experience, joined the walk to highlight the importance of mental health in young people and nature's positive impact.
Community Comes Together
The event attracted widespread community support, with groups including Wirral Woman's Warriors and Wirral Forrest participating. The walk began at 12pm from The Sport Centre and was opened by Jacqueline Leigh, followed by an address from Mike Palmer.
Notable attendees included Edge Hill honorary doctor and former professional footballer Chris Kirkland, known for his mental health advocacy. This third nature walk built upon the success of previous events, including one earlier this year that attracted over 90 participants.
The University continues to demonstrate how nature-based, person-centred approaches can significantly contribute to health and wellbeing within the campus community and beyond.
