SPONSORED: Improve your employees’ mental wellbeing with help from the National Trust for Scotland

Improve your employees’ mental wellbeing by supporting them to head outdoors this winter with the National Trust for Scotland corporate membership.

• ​A survey by Scotland’s largest conservation charity shows the positive impact the outdoors has on mental health and wellbeing
• ​94% of people stated spending time outdoors reduces their stress levels and 89% said it enhanced their quality of life

Research previously carried out by the National Trust for Scotland showed that 97% of Scots believe access to the outdoors is important for their mental health, something which is particularly important at this time of year when wintery weather and dark nights can prove off-putting to exploring the outdoors.

The research by Scotland’s largest conservation charity found that 94% of those surveyed said spending time outdoors was effective at reducing their stress levels, with 89% stating that it enhances their quality of life.

The Scottish coast topped the polls as the preferred place to spend time outdoors with 57% enjoying spending time by the sea, followed by 49% who favoured woodland spaces and 47% favouring country parks or gardens. The popularity of different types of landscape, and their value to people’s wellbeing, highlighted the importance of the National Trust for Scotland’s work to care for, protect and share Scotland’s outdoor places.

Looking after over 100 properties across Scotland, the Trust ensures people of all ages, and also future generations, have the opportunity to discover new places, make memories, and learn more about Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage, all while experiencing the positive wellbeing impacts of the outdoors. These range from the dramatic waterfall at Grey Mare’s Tail, to the stunning walks at The Hermitage, beautiful landscaped gardens at Crathes Castle and Culzean, and opportunity to go Munro bagging at Mar Lodge Estate National Nature Reserve.

Philip Long OBE, Chief Executive of the National Trust for Scotland, said: “Our charity is privileged to look after some of the country’s most beautiful natural heritage, and every day we see the positive impact that the great outdoors can have on wellbeing and mental health.

“It doesn’t have to be an epic climb of a mountain, or extreme water sports, it can be as simple as a walk around a peaceful garden or the bracing Scottish coastline. Whether you’re looking for a family day out, to make new memories with friends, or share a new experience with a loved one, there’s a place and activity for everyone.

“We’re proud to be able to play our part in looking after and providing access to outdoor places, to continue to offer residents and visitors to our incredible country the chance to make the most of the positive wellbeing impacts of the outdoors. It’s thanks to the support of our members and supporters that we can continue our vital work of caring for and sharing Scotland’s most special places, helping to create memories that last a lifetime.”

Wellbeing is a gift that employers can give their staff this year with a corporate membership from the National Trust for Scotland. A corporate membership offers employees access to over 100 historic sites, gardens, and natural landscapes across the country. For more information please go to Corporate membership | National Trust for Scotland