The Natural Health Service

It is increasingly acknowledged that gardens and green spaces are associated with better physical, social and mental health.


Hanging Basket Summer

Gardens can be great for the environment and for wildlife - and they’re good for people too, according to an increasing body of research

Make gardening part of your everyday life

It is increasingly acknowledged that gardens and green spaces are associated with better physical, social and mental health(1). British physician Sir Muir Gray famously said that everyone needs a ‘Natural Health Service’ as well as a National Health Service.

The question still remains as to how we embed gardens and gardening into daily life for everyone. The NHS has, since January 2019, officially included social prescribing in its Long Term Plan. As the population ages and healthcare costs spiral, social prescribing and preventative healthcare will likely take on renewed importance.

There is an opportunity for gardening to play a central role in improving our nation's mental health and wellbeing; currently the RHS is undertaking research to better understand how to maximise on the health benefits of gardening.

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