Nature prescriptions could be a cheaper way to improve the UK's mental health, a pioneering new study has found.

Research conducted by Leeds Beckett University found that swapping regular prescriptions for nature activities could save nearly £7 for every £1 invested in projects.

Overall, the study found that, after spending five to six hours outside every week, 95% of people who had low mental wellbeing improved within just six weeks. People suffering with anxiety, stress and depression reported feeling physically and emotionally better after taking part in outdoor projects such habitat protection or clearing a pond.

The study also calculated that there is an £8.50 social return for every £1 invested in regular nature volunteering projects, which helps tackle issues such as loneliness.

If this initiative gets the go-ahead, not only will patients be outdoors more often but they will also be engaging in new social activities.

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"We want to see the concept of nature on prescription becoming a core part of the NHS mental well-being programmes," Dom Higgins, nature and wellbeing manager at The Wildlife Trusts told The Independent.

"This new report shows the enormous value of a natural health service. It’s also important to have more investment in Wildlife Trust outdoor volunteering which has been proven to improve mental, physical and social wellbeing.

"In addition, we need many more wild, natural places near to where people live and work. That way, green prescribing can be rolled-out everywhere," Dom continues.

Dr Amir Khan, a GP and health ambassador for The Wildlife Trusts also commented on the study. He said: "If more people could access nature programmes, I believe that we would see a knock-on effect in our GP surgeries, with fewer people attending for help with preventable or social problems arising from being cut off from others, not getting active or having a purpose."

We have long been aware of the benefits of heading outdoors, whether it's enjoying a walk or gardening, but now this research has confirmed that nature really can improve our health.

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Lisa Joyner
Deputy Daily Editor, Country Living and House Beautiful

 Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.