A New Health And Wellbeing Programme introduced in Plymouth

~ Vickyw

A new health and wellbeing programme is being introduced by The National Academy of social Prescribing for people in Plymouth.

Partners in Plymouth will provide a range of activities in Central Park in the city.

The health and wellbeing initiative will also help people realise the full range of health benefits from participating in nature-based activities. 

Academy of Social Prescribing objectives

  • Make some noise – raising the profile of social prescribing 
  • Find resources – develop innovative funding partnerships 
  • Build relationships – broker and build relationships across all sectors 
  • Improve the evidence – shape and share the evidence base 
  • Spread what works – promote learning on social prescribing 

Studies have shown that green spaces reduce stress and boost mental and physical health

Green social prescribing links people to nature-based interventions and activities.

Activities include outdoor exercise, local runs, active travel, care farming, community gardening and food growing projects.

Other activities include conservation volunteering, green gyms, and arts and cultural activities taking place outdoors.

Research from the Mental Health Foundation on the mental health impacts of the pandemic showed going for walks outside was one of our top coping strategies. 

45% of people reported being in green spaces had been vital for their mental health. 

Deputy CEO and Business Development Manager YMCA Plymouth said: 

“Many vulnerable people that do not have access nor the disposable income to discover the natural environment around our city, and therefore the Park.

Which is in walking distance is their potential gateway to a green environment”. 

James Sanderson, CEO of the National Academy for Social Prescribing, added:

“The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of being outdoors to people’s mental and physical health. 

We’re delighted to see that the funded projects are already making progress in embedded green social prescribing in local health care.”

Will you be getting outdoors this week? 

Let us know how you are planning to spend mental health week.