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Essex-based research into GP-prescribed fishing to be expanded

University of Essex Brian Haycock by the waterUniversity of Essex
Brian Haycock, a veteran from Northern Ireland, is one of the volunteers involved in the project

Research to explore if GPs should prescribe fishing to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has received £1m of funding.

Dr Nick Cooper, from the University of Essex, and Dr Mark Wheeler plan to expand their work.

The Casting Away Trauma project has helped hundreds of military veterans but could also support emergency service workers.

Trials will be carried out at lakes near Harwich over a number of years.

The money has come from the National Institute for Health and Care Research, which Dr Wheeler described as "a tremendous piece of news".

University of Essex Dr Mark WheelerUniversity of Essex
Dr Mark Wheeler said the funding announcement was "tremendous"

Dr Cooper, from the department of psychology, said: "This is a game-changing funding for our research, which will help us show definitively if fishing can make a real difference to the people who have given so much to keep us all safe.

"We have shown that a weekend of angling has a demonstrable and real impact on vulnerable veterans and can help them back into society."

University of Essex Dr Nick CooperUniversity of Essex
Dr Nick Cooper is one of the researchers leading the project

Dr Cooper and Dr Wheeler said their previous research took people with 12 years of military experience on a fishing retreat, focusing on relaxation, socialisation and learning new skills.

They said it sparked "significant clinical change" in 60% of participants and reduced depression and anxiety for a month after the 30-hour trip.

Dr Wheeler added: "We look forward to the next part of the journey with excitement and anticipation."

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