Mind Over Mountains response to the NHS 10-year plan - calling for a focus on Green Social Prescribing at community level.
03 July 2025
As co-convenors of the national NatureMind Summit on Green Social Prescribing, mental health charity Mind Over Mountains stands alongside a growing body of evidence that shows nature-based interventions can play a transformative role in improving mental and physical health.
An independent evaluation of the national Green Social Prescribing Test & Learn Programme reported improved wellbeing outcomes for over 8,500 participants during its initial phase:
Participants’ wellbeing was measured before and after taking part in nature-based activities, using the Office for National Statistics (ONS4) wellbeing indicators. The results showed statistically significant improvements across all measures:
· Happiness rose from 5.3 to 7.5 out of 10 – exceeding the national average of 7.4.
· Life satisfaction increased from 4.7 to 6.8 (national average: 7.5).
· Feeling that life is worthwhile improved from 5.1 to 6.8 (national average: 7.7).
· Anxiety levels fell from 4.8 to 3.4 (national average: 3.2).
The estimated economic value of these improvements equated to £2.42 return for every £1 of government investment, amounting to a total wellbeing value of £14 million.
At Mind Over Mountains, 9 out of 10 participants report a lasting positive impact on their mental health, with many experiencing significant improvements after waiting months for help or having limited access to traditional services.
We strongly encourage Government to ensure that green social prescribing is firmly embedded within the new Community Care Plans and national referral systems. With waiting lists at record highs, it is imperative to invest in preventative, person-centred approaches. Green social prescribing not only reduces pressure on the NHS but can also help to tackle health inequalities and support recovery in ways that clinical services alone cannot.
The evidence is clear. The demand is rising. The cost of inaction is too high. It is time to scale up what works and make nature-based support a core pillar of our healthcare system.
