Social Prescribing

Green social prescribing links people to nature-based interventions and activities which take place outdoors.

Green social prescribing activities can be offered as an alternative form of treatment by a GP as well as through other methods within social care, housing and community groups. Individuals might also sign up to GSP activities themselves directly through organisations like Kindlings.

How does Social Prescribing work?

Social prescribing Link Workers (and other trusted professionals in allied roles) connect people to individuals, community groups and agencies for practical and emotional support, based on a ‘What matters to you?’ conversation.

Across the country, there is a clear shift towards acknowledging the benefits that nature and green social prescribing plays in the recovery of mental ill health. That shift is evidenced by reviews such as those outlined within the reviewed journal Population Health, Science Direct:

Benefits to individuals & groups.

  • Attention Restoration

    A profound sense of calmness, tranquillity and gratitude.

  • Social Belonging

    Deeper sense of social bonding, confidence and empathy.

  • Positivity & Hope

    A greater sense of personal purpose, motivation and optimism.

  • Wellness & Wellbeing

    Boosted immune function & improved cardiovascular and respiratory health.

  • Time to Reflect

    Time to appreciate the beauty and rawness of nature.

  • Connected to Earth

    Experiences of awe & wonder that nurture a deeper connection.

  • Resilience & Self-Reliance

    Greater self-knowledge and ability to cope with different life stressors.

  • Initiating a Practice

    Tools and practices to take forward and integrate into lifestyles.

  • Gillian facilitated a life-changing event that I will take with me and share with my family.

    – Jo F, County Down

  • Lying down in nature is something you don't normally do. It was so peaceful.

    – Ciara B, Belfast

  • Gillian has such a lovely gentle energy which added to this wonderful experience.

    – Margaret O, Belfast

  • This experience shifted feelings within. Instead of running around shopping centres, I have everything I need in nature.

    – Geraldine O, County Down

Upcoming Events

Writing with Dark Angels One Day Workshop

LONDON

Writing with Dark Angels Words Are Seeds Retreat

BORE PLACE KENT

Writing in the Woods
One Day Workshop

FINNEBROGUE WOODS

Forest Bathing Castle Ward Mindfulness Walk

CASTLE WARD