This May, Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust is proud to join NHS trusts across the North East and North Cumbria in taking part in No Mow May—a simple but powerful initiative encouraging organisations to let lawns grow freely for the month. The aim is to allow wildflowers to thrive, supporting essential pollinators like bees, butterflies and other insects, which play a vital role in our ecosystems.
Insect populations are currently declining at an alarming rate of 2.5% per year, with some species facing extinction within the century. Without these pollinators, food production and biodiversity are at serious risk. By participating in No Mow May, the Trust is helping to create safe spaces for wildlife, restore natural habitats, and contribute to the wider ecological recovery efforts within NHS estates.
A regional collaboration for nature
This effort is part of a wider, collaborative approach across the North East and North Cumbria, where multiple NHS trusts have come together to improve biodiversity across their sites. This includes relaxing mowing regimes and rethinking land management to prioritise environmental and ecological health.
Clare Winter, Head of Sustainability at Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust and Co-Chair of the North East & North Cumbria Provider Collaborative Sustainability Group, said:
NHS trusts in the North East & North Cumbria are taking a collaborative approach this May and taking part in No Mow May. Improving biodiversity in the region on our vast NHS estate provides many benefits both environmentally and to health and well-being, and so we have a duty to ensure we do this. Our collaboration together is important for engaging our communities with this work and the benefits that taking action in several small areas can have to support wildlife populations and habitats overall.
Creating healthier spaces for all
As well as supporting wildlife, allowing green spaces to grow naturally has clear benefits for people too. Research has shown that access to biodiverse green areas can significantly reduce stress, improve mental wellbeing, and create a more pleasant environment for both patients and staff.
By encouraging wildflowers and grasses to flourish, we also contribute to a healthier, more resilient ecosystem—one that supports birds, insects, and native plants, all of which are crucial for maintaining environmental balance.
Our commitment to sustainability
This initiative sits firmly within Gateshead Health’s wider commitment to environmental sustainability. We are working to align with the Delivering a Net Zero NHS strategy and make our estate more environmentally friendly. Participating in No Mow May is just one of the steps we’re taking to manage our land more sustainably, reduce our environmental footprint, and support long-term ecological health.
It also complements regional plans such as Northumbria Healthcare’s Rewilding (Biodiversity) Action Plan, developed in partnership with Climate Action North. This plan includes recommendations such as reducing grass cutting during spring and summer months, creating permanent wild areas, and engaging the public in biodiversity-focused efforts.
How you can help
- Respect the designated No Mow May areas on Trust grounds.
- Share the importance of biodiversity with colleagues, patients, and visitors.
- Get involved in NHS green initiatives and help us build a sustainable future.
Every small action makes a difference. Together, we’re not only creating more natural and beautiful spaces but also making a meaningful contribution to protecting wildlife and our shared environment.