In 2010 I graduated from the University of St Andrews with a Master of Arts (Honours) degree in Geography. For the past few years, I have worked within the field of greenspace management with both private and public organisations. Over this time I have developed an enthusiasm for researching the social, environmental and health related benefits of greenspace. In particular, I am interested in urban forestry and the ways in which the associated physical and mental health benefits are delivered to and experienced by local people.

At present, I am completing an MSc by Research in Human Geography and will start my PhD in September 2014. The project entitled ‘Designing and Managing Forests for Health’ has been developed in collaboration with the Forestry Commission Scotland and seeks to examine the links between forestry and community health across Scotland.