‘I forget everything’: the benefits of nature for mental health

As campaign launched to enshrine right to green space, Bolton woman describes how tranquility walks' helped her through lockdown

• UK wildlife campaigners call for legal right to access nature for all

During Covid lockdowns, Sharon Powell felt alone. She was caring for her father, 90, who was deteriorating from Parkinson's disease and dementia, and looking after him had become increasingly difficult.

Social life in her community in Johnson Fold, Bolton, had been Powell's escape from the pressure at home, but when Covid restrictions were introduced everything was just gone". She was depressed, anxious and having panic attacks like a washing machine on full spin".

This article was amended on 21 February 2022, to correct the spelling of Trish Goodwin's name.