A group of people walk in a wooded area with dappled sunlight through the leaves.

Nature for health and wellbeing

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Time spent outside, whether in the countryside or at the coast, is good for us

We feel the benefits of time in nature intuitively; it can boost our mood, improve our mental and physical health, and motivate us to get involved and get active with opportunities - research and evidence also backs this up

Why nature matters for our health

Spending time regularly in green and blue (water-based) spaces is scientifically proven to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve mood. In the New Forest, we believe our landscape is a ‘natural health service’ that should be valued and accessible to everyone, supporting:

  • Mental wellbeing
    • Nature-based activities help tackle loneliness, anxiety, and depression by building social connections and quieting the mind
  • Physical health 
    • Moving in nature can support weight management and reduce the risk of long-term conditions like Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease
  • Preventative care 
    • By connecting with nature we can prevent health issues from escalating, helping people stay well for longer
Two walkers talking to each other. One lady is in red and a red hat and the other in blue.

What is green social prescribing?

Green social prescribing is a way of connecting people to local, nature-based activities to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

While a GP might prescribe medicine, a Social Prescriber or Health Coach can ‘prescribe’ time spent in nature, active, or outside. It’s about more than just going for a walk, however. It’s about structured support such as inclusive cycling, community gardening, mindful forest bathing, or conservation volunteering. It’s a non-clinical approach that treats the individual and not just the symptom.

A room full of people take part in workshop discussions with a presenter standing at the front of the room beside a projector screen.

Aligning with the NHS 10-Year Health Plan

The Green Health Hub’s work in the New Forest directly supports the NHS 10-Year Health Plan, which calls for a fundamental shift in healthcare by moving from ‘hospital to community’ and ‘sickness to prevention’ approaches. By embedding nature-based interventions into local care pathways, we can help the NHS transition toward a more sustainable, proactive model of health that prioritises wellbeing within our natural environment.

How the Green Health Hub supports nature for health and wellbeing

For Residents

  • Take the time to explore the Green Health Hub if you feel you might benefit from connecting with nature but are not sure where to start. Browse the Hub’s directory of groups and find an activity that matches your interests and needs

For Health Professionals

  • The Green Health Hub provides a streamlined pathway for referrals with every group listed having completed a self-declaration assurance process meeting quality and safety standards
    • Clinical integration – we’re working to embed these pathways directly into clinical systems to make referring as simple as any other medical appointment
    • Trusted providers – groups listed on the Green Health Hub have met self-declaration requirements so you can be confident the group is equipped to support your patients’ specific needs

Get involved

A hall full of stalls and people engaging during a New Forest National Park Volunteer Fair.

Are you a local group?

We're looking for community organisations and nature-based projects to join our network. Sign up as a provider if you want to be listed on the Green Health Hub and reach more people in your community.

Get in touch to sign up Get in touch to sign up