Public health and the outdoors
Fresh air and exercise are known to be good for our mental and physical health, but for many people there are barriers and challenges that can make getting outdoors feel impossible. This project is all about working in partnership with NHS Scotland and healthcare professionals, and finding ways to support people to reap the health rewards that can come from the nature on their doorstep.
In keeping with the spirit of Cairngorms 2030, and finding new and innovative solutions to the problems we face, in 2023 this project developed a ‘green button’ giving GPs local to Badenoch and Strathspey the ability to prescribe nature.
By working with local doctors' surgeries creating a direct referral option, we’re helping to overcome some of the barriers that exist and enable more people to benefit from nature, in whatever way suits them best.
Once referred, people have access to a Green Health Link Worker who is there to support them to together find ways to connect to nature day-to-day. This can mean different things to different people. It might be joining some kind of group, doing physical activity outdoors, or learning a new skill like gardening or wildlife identification. Other options include nature-based volunteering, relaxing outdoors, or simply connecting with nature at home. Whatever the person chooses to do, the Green Health Link Worker supports them to achieve their goals and make changes that are positive and long-lasting.
Get in touch
If you would like to support this project or find out how you can get involved please email [email protected]
-
Date
July 2021 - December 2028
-
Value
£12,000
-
Location
Badenoch and Strathspey
-
Partnership plan objectives
-
Partners
Laggan
Could you, or someone you know, benefit from a nature prescription? Talk to your GP or visit your GP practice website to self-refer.
Kingussie
Could you, or someone you know, benefit from a nature prescription? Talk to your GP or visit your GP practice website to self-refer.
Aviemore
Could you, or someone you know, benefit from a nature prescription? Talk to your GP or visit your GP practice website to self-refer.
Grantown-on-Spey
Could you, or someone you know, benefit from a nature prescription? Talk to your GP or visit your GP practice website to self-refer.
