Forget the National Health Service, a national environmental charity is launching an alternative organisation to safeguard our well-being - the Natural Health Service.

The new service, led by Natural England, is in fact a campaign to give people better access to green spaces where they live as a method of getting everyone outdoors and in shape.

London will be at the heart of the campaign which is calling for more outdoor activity programmes and greater use of our parks Alison Barnes, Natural England’s London director, said: “In recent years, research has shown that poor diets and lack of exercise have led to increased levels of obesity, depression and heart disease amongst Londoners.

“The Natural Health Service aims to reverse this trend by providing people with the support they need to get active in their local green space.

“Whether it’s through conservation volunteering with a local park, participating in a weekly health walk, or just taking time to relax in our busy lives, the natural environment can play a huge role in improving people’s health and well being.”

• Find out about more local green groups at greenguardian.co.uk