'Nature prescriptions' being given as as part of medical trial on Exmoor
Health and wellbeing coaches are now trialling an RSPB idea to encourage people to get outside more
Last updated 16th Sep 2024
Health and wellbeing coaches are now prescribing 'spending time outside on Exmoor' as part of GP-backed 'prescriptions'.
The new scheme prescribes nature as 'a free to access, non-medical part of a patient's treatment plan'.
The idea was developed by the RSPB has now been launched in West Somerset - as a joint project with Health And Wellbeing Coaches from West Somerset Primary Care Network and staff from Exmoor National Park.
Ben Totterdell, Learning and Engagement Manager for Exmoor National Park said: “National Parks like Exmoor were created to help support the Nations’ health and wellbeing.
"It’s great to be working with local health professionals and our partners in the RSPB to develop this scheme and help more people to benefit from Exmoor’s ‘Natural Health Service’”.
Terry Bruce, one of the Health Coaches who is using the calendars with their patients said “Nature Prescriptions supports people to take positive, achievable steps to improve their own health, at the same time as appreciating the amazing natural beauty we have all around us in West Somerset.
"We have already received positive feedback from people who are feeling the benefits of connecting with nature in new ways!”
Sarah Walker from the RSPB who developed the Nature Prescriptions model said: “Nature should be an important part of health care delivery.
"RSPB Nature Prescriptions are being used by more and more health professionals to support people’s wellbeing through a stronger connection to nature. It’s wonderful to work together with Exmoor National Park and the Living Better Health and Wellbeing Coaches, to help people in Somerset to experience the benefits of nature.”
The Nature Prescription calendars are only available through GP surgeries as part of receiving support from a Health and Wellbeing Coach.