Bupa Dental Care has teamed up with The Wildlife Trusts to make a valuable contribution to the natural environment in local communities across the UK.
The initiative will see Bupa Dental Care create greener spaces across its UK practices and connecting colleagues and patients with local natural environments.
The Wildlife Trusts will also provide support for the company’s ‘Bupa in Bloom’ project, which has already seen practices start to transform outdoor areas – such as gardens, small yards, or entranceways – into nature-friendly havens that benefit wildlife and promote wellbeing among patients and staff.
By planting pollinator-friendly flowers and creating habitats and safe corridors for wildlife, practices are demonstrating how even small changes can positively impact the environment and patient experience.
Research shows that spending time in nature can reduce stress and improve mental health, making this initiative particularly valuable for those anxious about visiting the dentist.
As part of the relationship, Bupa Dental Care teams will have access to volunteering opportunities at local Wildlife Trust nature reserves, where they can participate in hands-on conservation activities. The Wildlife Trusts will also provide educational resources on climate change, wildlife-friendly gardening, and sustainable practices, helping teams make positive changes to support nature in both urban and rural environments.
Dan Skinner, Director of Risk & Sustainability at Bupa Dental Care, said: “We’re excited to be working with The Wildlife Trusts to bring our practice teams and patients closer to nature. Being in the natural environment has a proven positive impact on our health and wellbeing, and we want our teams, patients, and local communities to experience those benefits firsthand.
“From small gardens to dedicated wildlife-friendly spaces, teaming up with The Wildlife Trusts will help us to support local biodiversity while also creating a more welcoming atmosphere – especially for those who may feel nervous about visiting the dentist. We want to make our dental practices places that combine high-quality care with nature and community connection, helping patients feel at ease in a relaxing, nature-friendly environment.
“It also gives our practice and support teams – who are passionate about making a positive and lasting impact in our local communities – increased opportunities to support our planet’s long-term health.”
The relationship is part of Bupa Dental Care’s broader sustainability, recognising that a healthy and accessible natural environment is fundamental to individual and societal wellbeing, environmental resilience, and economic prosperity.
Emma Price-Thomas, head of corporate partnerships at The Wildlife Trusts, said: “Evidence shows that a thriving, wildlife-rich environment has profound benefits for both physical and mental health. Our relationship with Bupa Dental Care is bringing nature into the heart of local communities, planting the seeds for healthier, happier patients. This initiative will extend across the country, enhancing both nature and the wellbeing of staff and patients in a flourishing upward spiral.”
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