COLUMN by South Cotswolds MP Roz Savage

We probably all know, are related to, someone who struggles with mental health – or maybe you yourself do.

One in four people will have a mental health condition at some point in any given year, and it’s the 5th most common reason for sickness absence from work. A shocking one in 15 people will attempt suicide. Sadly, some succeed.

As your new MP, I often hear terrible stories from people who are struggling to get the professional support they need for their children or themselves.

It's heart-breaking to hear about teenagers who have spent much of their young lives waiting for professional help.

These are precious and formative years. To be left to struggle without essential help is unacceptable and must change.

The good news is that for those facing mild depression, or who want to sustain their mental health in the first place, research has consistently shown that spending time in nature can significantly improve wellbeing.

Just two hours a week in green spaces can boost our mood, reduce stress, and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Our constituency is blessed with easy access to nature. In our increasingly urbanised and digitally connected lives, the need for such natural respite has never been greater.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the essential role of outdoor spaces in times of crisis.

In my maiden speech to Parliament last week, I spoke in the food and farming debate of the South Cotswolds' unparalleled beauty, both architectural and natural – from the soaring slender spire of St Mary’s in Tetbury, the elegant honey-stoned buildings around the marketplace in Cirencester, and the awe-inspiring arches of Malmesbury Abbey, to our pleasing pasturelands, rolling hills, and the gorgeous autumn colours that are now blushing across our countryside, notably at the National Arboretum at Westonbirt.

Indeed the Arboretum team do wonderful work enabling those struggling with wellbeing and self esteem to connect with nature, and I am grateful to them for it.

It is our duty to protect this heritage and share its healing embrace with all.

I support "green prescriptions", where healthcare providers recommend time in nature as part of treatment plans for mental health conditions.

I support our farmers, whose work through the generations has created our wonderful landscape, while also supporting a reasonable right to roam, provided that it respects privacy and protects rural livelihoods.

I admire organisations like the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust who use nature, flora and fauna as a natural balm, helping children with behavioural issues overcome challenges, and members of the armed forces facing mental anguish cope with day to day life.

Speaking for myself, my early morning walks in the woods have helped keep me sane during an exhausting general election campaign and my first 100 days in Parliament, and will do so going forward.

By spending time in nature, we are supporting not only the mental health of our families, friends and neighbours, but also the long-term wellbeing of our communities and environment.

A deep connection with nature and with our place gives us a sense of belonging, creating healthier, happier lives and more resilient communities.

To that end, I look forward to introducing my Climate and Nature Private Members Bill to Parliament this week, and thank the MPs of all parties who have already declared their support for it