Residents in Truro are set to play a major role in a new study that will assess how neighbourhood environments can affect health and wellbeing.

A selection of around 2000 households has been chosen for the study, which will initially involve the completion of a health and wellbeing survey. The questionnaire will arrive in letterboxes across the city this week and is designed to be completed by household residents over the age of 16.

The study is being undertaken by researchers from the European Centre for Environment and Human Health, and is the first part of a detailed investigation into the relationships between people and their local neighbourhoods. The team are keen to receive as many responses as possible and hope that residents will be eager to participate in future stages of the study.

Dr Ben Wheeler, who is leading the research said “There is a growing body of evidence that suggests use of the environment can improve our physical and mental health. We want to understand how this can be achieved in urban environments and Truro provides us with the perfect location to do this. We’re hoping this study will help us to recommend measures that will ultimately enhance the health and wellbeing of city residents.”