About this goal

Over the last 15 years, the number of childhood deaths has been cut in half.  This proves that it is possible to win the fight against almost every disease.  Still, we are spending an astonishing amount of money and resources on treating illnesses that are surprisingly easy to prevent.  The new goal for worldwide Good Health promotes healthy lifestyles, preventive measures and modern, efficient healthcare for everyone. (Goal 3: Good health and well-being - The Global Goals)

In Focus: Burnhill Action Group

Good health and wellbeing are at the heart of flourishing, vibrant and resilient communities.  A group of South Lanarkshire residents have taken action to create a fantastic, much-needed community space which has greatly improved health and wellbeing in the community.  Burnhill Action Group were established by a group of residents with a commitment to improve the local area, create opportunities and pride in their community.  Recognising the need for improved facilities, they worked in collaboration with a range of partners including South Lanarkshire Council and Action for Children to develop a vacant piece of land, known locally as the High Backs. The project saw the area transform from a dangerous, overgrown area used for fly-tipping, into a beautiful, safe, and functional community garden and a real community asset.

The group recognise that sustainability brings with it many co-benefits including saving money, learning new skills, reducing social isolation and is vital in creating a happy and healthy environment.  Reclaimed wooden planters filled with pollinator-friendly plants and allotments to grow food provides an opportunity to be outdoors and enjoy time in nature.  People of all ages come together to learn about, produce and eat home-grown, healthy food and the recently installed solar panelled lights mean the space can now be used all year round. 

Young people have shown confidence and leadership in taking forward climate action, recently launching a litter and fly-tipping campaign.  Residents were invited to the High Backs to hear the young people leading a talk on how litter and fly-tipping is affecting them and the environment.  Stalls promoting recycling, upcycling and more sustainable products, further embedded the message and influenced behaviour change.  As a result of this, the young people were given recycling bins (paper/card, plastic/glass and a hot composter) from South Lanarkshire Council to allow them to lead by example and recycle their waste.

Project Lead Lizzie Macdonald encourages people to take action in their own community.

 ‘It’s about encouraging people to get outdoors, encouraging positive mental and physical health, engaging with your neighbour to reduce isolation… there are challenges, but don’t let it put you off… we now have a really peaceful, quiet place where people can come to enjoy.’

Further reading and information

Goal 3: Good Health and Wellbeing
Goal 3: Good health and well-being - The Global Goals

The High Backs - Burnhill's Community Garden 2022 (Youtube)
The High Backs - Burnhill's Community Garden 2022 - YouTube 

Sustainable Development and Climate Change Strategy
Introduction - South Lanarkshire Council