As part of our ongoing commitment to staff and volunteer wellbeing across East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust, we recently held a spring themed photo competition. This competition was open to all staff and volunteers, encouraging everyone to pause, take a breath and notice the signs of spring in their day-today surroundings. 

Whether on site at our hospitals, out in the community or working from home, participants were invited to capture a photo of something that reminded them of spring. It could be blossom trees in the car park, bees buzzing in the wellbeing garden or birds spotted on a lunchtime walk. The idea of this photo competition was to encourage a mindful moment and connection to nature. 

Winners were selected for their creativity and attention to detail, each receiving a £25 garden voucher as congratulations. Our winners included: 

At our charity, we know that moments in nature however small, can make meaningful difference to our mental health, especially in busy healthcare environments. This competition has hopefully shown that wellbeing doesn't have to mean taking time away from work, it can be as simple as noticing what's growing just outside the door. 

Thank you to everyone who took part.