Funding boost for 'green' health prescriptions

An NHS trust has been awarded funding to continue a green social prescribing scheme to help boost people's mental and physical health.

South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw was one of seven test areas which trialled how connecting people with nature can improve mental ill-health.

After initially receiving £500,000 to introduce the scheme, a further £298,000 has been awarded to continue the work for the next two years.

Dr David Crichton, NHS South Yorkshire's chief medical officer, said connecting with nature had been shown to improve mood, anxiety levels and physical health.

Green social prescribing connects patients and healthcare professionals to community nature-based activities.

As part of the programme, 23 voluntary, community and social organisations across South Yorkshire have been awarded grants to support patients.

“We are lucky to be surrounded by world-renowned green spaces, as well as ‘blue’ spaces such as canals and waterways, fishing ponds and reservoirs,” Dr Crichton said.

“We are already working in partnership with voluntary and community organisations to support people who don’t feel they have access to, or the opportunity to, appreciate the positive effects of the natural world around them."

The Darnall Well Being group has used green social prescribing funding to offer community walks.

Fran Arnold, from the charity, said patients told her it was “fantastic” for mental health.

“As well as hearing from participants that they feel free and have peace of mind while out in nature, they have also told us that they enjoy seeing a new place, enjoying the views and discovering new plants,” she said.

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