A new report published by researchers from the University of Exeter, in partnership with the University of Sheffield, Sheffield Hallam University, and the University of Plymouth, reveals the positive impact of Green Social Prescribing on mental health. Commissioned by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra), the study explores how increasing access to nature-based activities can help tackle and prevent mental ill health.
What is Green Social Prescribing?
Green Social Prescribing involves connecting individuals with mental health needs to nature-based activities, such as gardening, conservation, care farming, outdoor exercise, or therapeutic activities in natural settings. Referrals usually come from GPs, community mental health teams, or social workers, but self-referrals are also accepted. Social Prescribing Link Workers then match individuals with appropriate community groups and services for practical and emotional support.
Key Findings
The study included 8,339 participants from seven Green Social Prescribing Test and Learn pilot sites across England, reaching a diverse range of individuals, including children, young people, ethnic minorities, and those from socio-economically deprived areas. Participants reported improvements in wellbeing, with happiness and anxiety levels aligning with national averages after engaging in nature-based activities. Life satisfaction and the sense of life being worthwhile also showed significant improvement.
Participants shared positive experiences, with one saying, “After the group, I feel joyful, happy, and calm. I have a sense of achievement, and I feel my wellbeing is increasing. I look forward to attending.”
Another participant highlighted its effectiveness compared to other treatments: “It works better than medication for me. It works better than CBT for me. Most of my stuff is related to trauma, so NICE guidelines don’t recommend medication for borderline personality disorder. I have my counselling, and that is really valuable, but this is on a par with that.”
Cost-Effectiveness and Broader Implications
The average cost per participant was £507, making Green Social Prescribing a cost-effective intervention compared to traditional treatments like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or other mental health support strategies.
Professor Ruth Garside from the University of Exeter emphasised the importance of continued investment and support for this approach, stating, "Green Social Prescribing needs ongoing commitment from policymakers to understand the needs of communities and enable more diverse people to connect with nature."
Marion Steiner, a GP involved in the Bristol Test and Learn Pilot, highlighted the broader benefits: "Connecting with nature is a lifelong resource with proven benefits for mental and physical health. This project has the potential to reduce NHS costs and address a range of health needs, including lowering the risk of diseases such as diabetes and depression."
Dr Annette Haywood, Principal Investigator of the study, added: "This report strengthens the evidence that nature-based activities are a relatively cost-effective way to support people with various mental health needs."
Green Social Prescribing is a powerful tool for improving mental health and wellbeing across diverse communities, providing a holistic approach beyond traditional treatments. This latest report highlights the significant impact of nature-based activities on mental health, demonstrating their effectiveness and cost-efficiency in supporting individuals with a wide range of needs. To fully realise the potential of Green Social Prescribing, there is a crucial need for sustained investment, strategic support, and policy commitment to expand and embed these initiatives within our communities. By doing so, we can create more accessible, inclusive, and effective pathways to mental health support for all.
Additional reading:
The "GSP Evaluation Final Report - Main Report Jan 2024," "Summary Report - Jan 2024," and "Policy Briefing - Jan 2024" are now available online. You can access these comprehensive documents and detailed findings at Defra’s R&D Portal.
Explore the economic benefits of investing in mental health prevention in the UK with the latest report from the Mental Health Foundation. Learn more about the cost-effectiveness of early intervention strategies here.