Giant Sunflowers Installed In Leeds Parks To Promote Better Mental Health

The NHS in Leeds has ‘planted’ giant sunflowers in six of Leeds’ most popular parks to remind people to look after their mental health and to help people access support. The giant sunflowers have been installed at Temple Newsam, Roundhay Park, Kirkstall Abbey, Pudsey Park, Armley Park and Banstead Park.

The 1.2 metre blooms, which were chosen as symbols of strength, positivity and happiness, all feature the phrase ‘Looking after your mind is just as important as looking after you body’ and a QR code which people can activate by smartphone to access a NHS web page with mental health support resources.

The flowers are designed to raise awareness of the importance of looking after our mental health, what support services people can access and resources available to them.

Dr Jason Broch, a GP in Leeds and Clinical Chair at NHS Leeds Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) said:
“We know that the past 12 months has put an enormous strain on many people’s mental health. Getting out and about into nature is a great way to boost the mood so what better way to reach people than in some of the city’s most popular parks and green spaces.

“The sunflower is a symbol of strength, positivity and happiness and provides an eye-catching way to promote mental health awareness. As well as reminding people of the importance of looking after their mental health and the support they can access to help with their mental health.

“We’re delighted that Leeds City Council have let us use their parks for this campaign and hope that the new giant sunflowers will catch people’s eye and scan the QR code, so people know what support is available if they need it.”

The NHS Leeds CCG website includes information and support services for adults and young people who may be suffering from mental health issues. See www.supportnhsleeds.co.uk/mentalhealth for more information.

This activity will run for 4 weeks until the end of April.