Communities in North Belfast are set to benefit from a brand-new resource designed to promote health, well-being, and community engagement. The Greater Care Zone Green Health Map, created with support from Belfast Healthy Cities, highlights the area’s green spaces, walking trails, and community services to encourage residents to explore and embrace the mental and physical health benefits of their local environment.

The map was developed with a strong focus on youth engagement, featuring input from young people involved with ‘YEHA,’ youth volunteers, Care Zone Community Champions, and the North Belfast Senior Citizen Forum. Points of interest include youth organisations, community centres, and services, alongside local parks like the Waterworks and GROW Community Garden.

Green spaces are known to provide a wide range of health benefits. Spending time in natural environments can reduce stress, improve mental well-being, and encourage physical activity, which contributes to a healthier lifestyle. They also play a key role in combating loneliness by creating spaces where people can connect with others, fostering social interaction and be part of their community. Green spaces further enhance air quality, support biodiversity, and create calming environments that are vital for overall well-being.

Charlene Brooks, Chief Executive Officer of Belfast Healthy Cities, emphasised the significance of this resource: “The Greater Care Zone Green Health Map is an excellent example of how we can work collaboratively with communities to create tools that empower individuals to make positive choices for their health. Green spaces offer incredible benefits, from reducing stress and improving mental health to encouraging physical activity. By highlighting these areas and services, we’re making it easier for people to connect with nature and their community. By highlighting these areas and services, we’re making it easier for people to connect with nature and their community.”

The map aims to encourage residents to take full advantage of their local environment by identifying the opportunities it provides for both physical and mental well-being. Whether it’s walking along scenic trails, engaging in community gardening, or visiting local youth organisations and hubs, the map is a vital resource to inspire people to engage with their surroundings.

The Lord Mayor of Belfast, Cllr Micky Murray, speaking at the launch, said: “North Belfast is a vibrant community with so much to offer, and this map is a fantastic way to showcase its green spaces and community resources. By encouraging people to explore their local environment, we are promoting healthier lifestyles and fostering a stronger sense of connection among residents. I commend Care Zone and Belfast Healthy Cities for this initiative, which I hope will inspire people to step out and enjoy the outdoors.”

Sean Devlin, Chair of the Care Zone Management Committee and senior manager at YEHA, also shared his excitement about the map’s potential impact: “The Care Zone team is proud to launch this resource for the Greater Care Zone community. Engaging with young people, community champions, and local groups has ensured the map is inclusive and reflective of the area’s needs. Green spaces in particular offer numerous benefits, from improving mental health to fostering stronger social connections. We hope this map will encourage residents to take advantage of the incredible resources North Belfast has to offer while improving health and well-being for all.”

The Greater Care Zone Green Health Map is available online here. It serves as a vital tool for encouraging outdoor activity, improving mental health, and fostering community spirit.