Healthcare workers in the UK are facing unprecedented challenges, but one project led by an NHS GP aims to bring some much-needed respite away from hospitals and GP practices. Partnering with the NHS Forest, Baldock Surgery in Hertfordshire has worked with a local farmer to transform a piece of land into a thriving woodland that serves both healthcare workers and the local community.
The site is one of the earliest NHS Forest locations and gives a glimpse of what other sites can expect when their trees start to mature. What started as a commemoration for loved ones has blossomed into a forest of almost 3,000 trees, creating a lasting legacy that brings people together while supporting both environmental and mental health initiatives.
Dr. Keith Cockburn shares how a simple idea to plant trees has grown into something far more meaningful. “It was Professor Arthur Hibble, my then boss at the Eastern Deanery GP School, who put me in touch with those thinking about an NHS Forest and I attended the inaugural meeting,” Keith recalls. “Once we got going it worked very well because a local farmer had land and was keen to have trees and we had loads of people who were enthusiastic about planting trees.” The first planting of around 800 trees was particularly poignant, commemorating the passing of family members and honouring the dedicated staff at John Radcliffe’s intensive care unit. The project expanded to mark every member of staff at Keith’s practice, as well as the hospital’s endoscopy unit. Further trees were planted for each delegate attending a UK conference for leaders of GP education. The range of people involved in the project shows how far tree planting can bring individuals together.
The success of this initial planting led to subsequent waves of tree-planting initiatives. In 2015, another significant planting took place of around 1,000 trees, followed by another 1,000 in 2022. Although the project has grown organically, it is amongst the largest planting initiatives supported by the NHS Forest and won an NHS Forest award in 2023 for most trees planted in a season.
What makes this project particularly special is its impact on community building and mental wellbeing. The planting days became celebrations, bringing together healthcare workers from various departments, administrative staff and local community members. Keith remembers the reaction to the project: “The planting was amazing – everyone coming together. There were people who said ‘I would have paid to do this. This was so therapeutic.’” With refreshments provided and a welcoming atmosphere, these events created connections between people who might not otherwise have met, from hospital staff to practice receptionists.
While the woodland isn’t on NHS property, it has become a cherished space for reflection and relaxation. Located about five miles from the hospital, the site offers spectacular views and has become a peaceful retreat for healthcare workers, their families and the local community.
It’s a place where multiple generations have worked together, planting trees and the project demonstrates how environmental initiatives can serve multiple purposes. Beyond the clear biodiversity and environmental benefits of planting trees, the woodland has become a memorial space where people can sit with their thoughts.
Reflecting on the wellbeing of his NHS colleagues, Keith says: “We need to look after each other. We don’t spend enough time together in a relaxed situation.” Looking ahead, he hopes to expand the woodland’s role in supporting healthcare workers’ wellbeing. Initial ideas include the site could becoming a retreat for NHS workers, hosting activities from walking groups to yoga sessions. This would diversify the space’s use while maintaining its peaceful character.
The project also offers valuable lessons for similar initiatives. Keith emphasises the importance of practical considerations when planning a planting day. Some participants may not be experienced tree planters and creating an encouraging atmosphere ensures everyone can contribute meaningfully. It’s also important to allow for changes in the weather and to be prepared to reschedule.
Perhaps the most inspiring aspect of this story is its simplicity. As Keith puts it, “It’s incredibly simple. The NHS Forest is offering you trees… they’re not difficult to plant, you’ve just got to find somewhere to put them.”
This initiative stands as a testament to what can be achieved when healthcare organisations think creatively about supporting their staff and communities. It shows how environmental projects can serve multiple purposes: creating green spaces for biodiversity, building community connections, providing memorial sites and offering peaceful retreats for those who need them most.
As the trees continue to grow, so too does the potential for this woodland to serve as a model for other NHS organisations looking to create meaningful spaces that benefit both people and planet. In the face of ongoing healthcare challenges, initiatives like this remind us of the healing power of nature and community coming together.
Want to read about more of the original NHS Forest sites? Read this blog about Tickhill Road Hospital.