Veterans’ Green Task Force takes shape

WITH the advent of the Northern Forest and the commitment to plant 50 million trees, there has been significant interest in tree-planting.  

There has also been an increase in research surrounding mental health and the natural environment. Research shows that those undertaking nature-based tasks get significant benefits from their work. PATT founder Andrew Steel, an ex-serviceman, looked to tackle this issue along with the mammoth task of planting 50 Million trees.

Andrew said: “ There was a lot of energy being put into the funding of trees, but they wouldn’t jump into the ground themselves and reliance on volunteers to accomplish that task could not be guaranteed. There had to be a solution that covered multiple bases and with the advent of nature-based therapy the solution was simple.” He continues: “Why not engage veterans on tree-planting projects and assist in tackling mental heath issues too, an avenue could potentially exist to ‘employ’ the veterans.” Working closely with Dr Shaun Allan a former Royal Marine, the basis of the ‘Green Task Force’ was born. 

“So many veterans suffer from PTSD and the focus has too often been on the problem and not thee solution. If we reframe the situation and talk about Post Traumatic Growth, we can engage individuals and tackle the problem putting veterans on a pathway to recovery. The solution is simple and the timing could not be more perfect to help benefit the environment, wildlife and our worthy veterans.”

To find out more about the Green Task Force, email info@pattfoundation.org.