An innovative scheme which introduces people with mental health problems to the green space surrounding Forth Valley Royal Hospital has been honoured at the inaugural RSPB Nature of Scotland Awar

The ‘Branching Out’ scheme is hosted by staff from Westbank Day Hospital and Bellsdyke wards, who work in partnership with Forestry Commission Scotland.  Patients are encouraged to take part in a mixture of conservation, field craft, environmental art and gentle exercise-based activities. This includes health walks and tai chi, rhododendron clearing and coppicing, photography and willow sculptures.