Prescribing nature: Dr Mary Cauldbeck on green health

As GPs, traditionally we’re trained to prescribe medication – not birdsong, blooming gardens, or sunlight. But these moments belong in our toolkit too.

Here in the Cairngorms, we are lucky to have such beautiful landscapes right on our doorstep and, for me, there’s no better feeling than getting out on my bike or taking my kids for a walk to soak in the nature around us.

There’s a wealth of research showing that regular contact with the outdoors can boost mental and physical health, helping to reduce the risk of conditions such as cardiovascular disease and depression. Yet people don’t always feel able or motivated to access green spaces. That’s where nature prescriptions come in – a tailored invitation to connect with the outdoors.

It’s a simple process. Patients can be referred via NHS GP surgeries in Badenoch and Strathspey, or they can self-refer by speaking to their doctor or visiting their practice’s website. They are then connected with Cairngorms 2030 Green Health Link Workers Gavin and Louise, who support them to find realistic, accessible ways to benefit from nature in a way that works for them.

Prescriptions might include joining one of the Park Authority’s all-ability health walks, taking part in a mindful ‘forest bathing’ session, or connecting with nature at home.

Living in such a stunning area, it’s easy to take nature for granted, but prescribing it reinforces the idea that it is a valuable tool for health.

When the project first launched around two years ago, there was some scepticism – particularly amongst doctors. What would it add, and weren’t people already accessing nature if they wanted to? That doubt quickly faded as we began to see the positive impact on patients, many of whom were not making the most of the resources available to them beforehand. 

In my experience, nature prescriptions definitely reduce visits to the GP, and feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with patients praising that the initiative is accessible for everyone, opens the door to new opportunities, and fosters a sense of community. 

Many people whom I identify for referral are struggling with mental wellbeing, and getting involved in activities like health walks really reduces isolation and helps those lacking motivation.

My dream is that nature prescriptions become a routine option for everyone – raised in annual reviews, routine appointments, and in conversations about long-term conditions.

To make that happen, it’s important that both patients and clinicians across the valley are aware of this valuable service. 

As doctors, we can sometimes forget or overlook the resources we have, but referrals are far simpler than people think and it’s all about making sure the nature prescription is at the forefront of GP’s minds. 

If you’re thinking about asking for a nature prescription, don’t let any barriers put you off. The team are really friendly and approachable, so just give it a go – you can always change your mind. Often that first step is all it takes to make real progress. 

This project is part of Cairngorms 2030, an ambitious programme of 20 projects with communities for communities, creating meaningful and sustainable solutions that benefit people and nature alike, with improving people's health and wellbeing as one of the key strands. 

Cairngorms 2030 is made possible through funding by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery Players.

If you, or someone you know, would benefit from a nature prescription, talk to your GP or visit one of the below GP Practice websites to self-refer.

• Grantown-on-Spey medical practice
• Aviemore medical practice
• Kingussie medical practice
• Laggan medical practice