Collaboratory Researcher Profiles
Project Title: Nature Based Wellbeing and Sustainable Resources: Community approaches to green prescribing in urban green spaces
What were you doing before starting this PhD?
Before beginning my PhD, I was working as a gardener for Severn Hospice, where I managed grounds and worked closely with volunteers. Prior to this, I completed my Master’s degree in Forensic Art and Facial Imaging at the University of Dundee in 2023. This led me to work as a Medical Photographer in South Wales. My work previously lay at the intersection of science and art but has now moved towards science and wellbeing.
What motivated you to apply for this specific PhD project?
I was strongly motivated by my experience at Severn Hospice. It was a privilege to witness the positive impact that outdoor work and shared green spaces can have on individuals and communities. However, I also became aware of how much these initiatives rely on the often unrecognised labour of organisers and volunteers.
Having worked in another charity setting, I have seen first-hand how vital these spaces are, but also how dependent they are on limited resources and sustained goodwill. This made me particularly interested in a project that seeks to better understand and support these systems.
Finding a sustainable solution that utilises a waste material could bring lasting change and create a model that not only improves health and wellbeing but also saves money and resources.
Why do you think this research is important?
This research is important because nature-based and community-led initiatives are increasingly recognised for their role in supporting health and wellbeing. However, the sustainability of these initiatives is often overlooked.
By exploring both their benefits and the challenges faced by those who organise them, this research can contribute to more effective support structures, policy development, and long-term investment in community wellbeing.
I hope to develop an initiative that saves money, benefits the community and contributes to better nurturing the environment.
What do you hope to be doing in 5 years’ time?
In five years time, I hope to be working in a role where I can continue to bridge research and practice, particularly within community, environmental, or health-related sectors. I would like to contribute to projects or policies that support sustainability, accessible wellbeing initiatives and ensure that the work of volunteers and organisers is properly recognised and supported.