Mental Health Awareness Week: How South Tyneside's nature havens are being used to help improve mental health

The theme of this year’s awareness week – which runs from May 10 to 16 – is nature, in recognition of the vital role it has played in helping so many people through the pandemic.

South Tyneside Council, Change4life Champions and partners are compiling an electronic resources pack highlighting local walks, nature trails and cycle routes where people can get active and connect with nature.

The pack will also contain more general mental health resources, on subjects such as sleep, as well as useful contact details of where help is available. Anyone wishing to receive a pack should email [email protected]

To find out more visit http://www.visitsouthtyneside.co.uk/article/62543/Sport-leisure

Residents are also encouraged to send in a nature inspired poem they have written or a photo they have taken while out and about in the borough to be included in an exclusive eBook.

Submissions can be sent to [email protected] by May 17. Alternatively post it on Facebook and tag us in @c4lsouthtyneside.

Cllr Anne Hetherington, lead member for independence and wellbeing, said: “The past year has proven to be one of the most challenging most of us have ever experienced and many of us have seen our mental health suffer as a result.

“This year, it is more important than ever to mark Mental Health Awareness Week and get people talking about mental wellbeing.”

To find out more about the activities and events on offer, visit www.southtyneside.gov.uk/MHAW