Skip to main content

The charity making life better by water

Dr. Amir Khan

Dr. Amir Khan, a GP and best-selling author, is a champion for our rivers and canals.

Here, he tells us why spending time outdoors improves health and wellbeing and why we should all play our part in protecting our local canals.

What do you like about spending time by canals and rivers?

As a doctor, I am constantly looking for ways to help people feel better. Getting outside each day and spending time in nature helps to reduce stress, anxiety and blood pressure. Studies have also shown that spending time by water can help to restore our mind and bring positive energy to our lives. I feel this when I spend time by my local canal, and I know that it works for many other people too.

Why is the work of Canal & River Trust so important?

In the UK, over 50 million people live in urban areas, that's nearly 83% of the population! In places like Bradford, where I work, the canal is one of the only green/blue space that people can easily access. Without canals, the associated health benefits would be pushed beyond the reach of millions of people.

The work that Canal & River Trust does to look after these spaces and to encourage people, especially those of us living in towns and cities, to get out and enjoy time by water is crucial to enabling more people to enjoy better mental and physical wellness.

What are your hopes for the charity over the next 10 years?

Canals offer us respite from our busy lives and the chance to spend time in nature, which we so badly need. It would be fantastic if in 10 years' time, canals are seen as our 'natural health service' and we have more doctors and health practitioners prescribing time by water to their patients.

Last Edited: 29 February 2024

photo of a location on the canals
newsletter logo

Stay connected

Sign up to our monthly newsletter and be the first to hear about campaigns, upcoming events and fundraising inspiration