Health and Nature
The Health and Nature Network brings together organisations from across Kent and Medway to help more people benefit from the health and wellbeing opportunities that nature provides. By connecting partners from the health, voluntary, environmental and public sectors, we are creating a more joined-up approach to improving physical and mental wellbeing through access to green and blue spaces.
Over recent years, we have been bringing partners together to share knowledge, identify opportunities and develop collaborative workstreams that support Green Social Prescribing across Kent and Medway. Our shared ambition is to make it easier for health professionals, social prescribers and link workers to connect people with local nature-based activities and interventions that can improve their health and wellbeing.
In January 2026, two Health and Nature Lead Officers were appointed to lead the Health and Nature Fund programme. Vicky MacDonald brings many years of experience designing and delivering Green Social Prescribing interventions across Kent, while Dr Cindy Bronn has extensive expertise in social research, strategy development and evaluation.
Together, they are working with partners across Kent and Medway to create a more connected, informed and effective Green Social Prescribing sector. Through collaboration, evidence gathering and strategic planning, the Health and Nature Network aims to strengthen the role of nature in supporting health and wellbeing and ensure that more people can access the benefits of the county’s green and blue spaces.
Updates
The latest Health and Nature Network meeting took place on Thursday 4 June, bringing together partners from across Kent and Medway to share updates and help shape the future direction of Health and Nature work in the county.
Theory of Change workshop
Led by Dr Cindy Bronn and Sarah Deakin, Public Health Specialist, the interactive workshop focused on developing a shared Health and Nature Network Theory of Change. Members contributed their experience and insights to explore how collective action can improve health outcomes through nature, reduce inequalities and strengthen Green Social Prescribing across Kent and Medway.
Feedback and ideas gathered during the session will be used to develop a first draft of the Theory of Change, which will be shared with network members in the coming months.
Training and Health and Nature Fund update
Vicky MacDonald provided an update on the recently awarded places for the Level 3 Nature-based Intervention Certificate, helping to build knowledge and expertise across the sector. Members also heard about the successful projects awarded funding through the Health and Nature Fund.
Trusted Providers List workshop
Members took part in a brainstorming session to explore the possibility of a future Trusted Providers List. Discussions explored what social prescribers and nature-based providers would need from such a resource, helping to inform the potential next stage of its development.
Funding
Applications for the current round of the Health and Nature Fund have now closed.
The fund attracted an exceptional number of high-quality applications, reflecting the growing momentum across Kent for innovative, evidence-informed health and nature programmes. The successful projects showcase the creativity, commitment and progress being made across the county, highlighting the important role that nature connection can play in supporting health and wellbeing.
Information about the fund, including eligibility criteria, funding priorities and the successful funded projects, remains available for anyone interested in learning more about the programme.
Training
Applications are now open for the accredited Level 3 Certificate in Nature-based Practice, funded by Kent Public Health and delivered in partnership with Circle of Life Rediscovery CIC.
The course is designed for VCSE organisations, public health professionals, countryside and green space teams, and other practitioners who want to develop the skills and knowledge needed to deliver nature-based interventions that support mental health and wellbeing. Priority will be given to organisations working with high-need communities and those committed to providing inclusive, accessible opportunities.
The training combines in-person learning, online workshops and practical application, enabling participants to safely design and deliver nature-based activities in their communities.
Application deadline: Sunday 2 August 2026.
Network
The Health and Nature Network has grown to more than 200 members from across Kent and Medway, including representatives from local authorities, healthcare organisations, and the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector.
The network meets quarterly to share updates, showcase projects, discuss emerging opportunities and support the development of Green Social Prescribing across the county.
To join the network, please email healthnaturefund@kent.gov.uk