Hull-Based HEY Smile Foundation Leads National Charge in Transforming Mental Health with Nature-Based Solutions
Following the recent publication of the Preventing and Tackling Mental Ill Health through Green Social Prescribing Project’s national evaluation report, HEY Smile Foundation is thrilled to share the outstanding success this local charity has had as part of this pioneering nationwide project. Since 2021 HEY Smile has been at the forefront of delivering on a partnership led approach to nature-based mental health interventions that have changed lives across Humber and North Yorkshire and has revolutionised mental health support through Green Social Prescribing (GSP).
A National Initiative with Local Heroes at the Helm
As part of a £5.77 million government-funded “Test and Learn” initiative, the HEY Smile Foundation, alongside local partners including Navigo, Forum, HEY Mind, Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust, York CVS, Age UK North Yorkshire Moors and Coast and others, has been driving efforts to tackle mental health challenges in the region. This groundbreaking initiative brings the healing power of nature to the forefront, proving that outdoor activities can be a game-changer for mental wellbeing.
The University of York’s analysis of the project’s outcomes revealed significant reductions in anxiety and depression among participants engaged in activities like community gardening, walking groups, and nature conservation. These results are part of a national report released by DEFRA, showcasing how Green Social Prescribing is making a profound impact on mental health across the country.
The results from the Humber and North Yorkshire region have been nothing short of incredible:
- Happiness levels soared, with participants feeling more connected and fulfilled.
- Life satisfaction shot up, bringing a renewed sense of purpose to those involved.
- Anxiety levels dropped dramatically, helping individuals regain control over their mental health.
These transformations are the direct result of the region’s dedicated collaboration and the innovative use of nature to boost mental wellbeing.
The findings captured in Humber and North Yorkshire came from a wide range of participants, all seeking support for mild to moderate mental ill health, and the insight they shared was invaluable.
One participant stated that “being outdoors in nature, going for walks and fresh air is far better than pills and I am glad this is being recognised. It is difficult to motivate yourself when you have mental health, so this type of group really helps with this”, while another reflected “Previous to attending I was very isolated due to my poor mental health. These groups have help me to use outdoor space and fresh air to reduce stress and anxieties. I feel I am now a very different person to the one I was when I began the groups”.
Those delivering GSP activities, alongside those referring into GSP activity, also gave their insight, with one social prescriber highlighting “connecting individuals with GSP activities gives those I refer a chance to focus on their interests and strengths rather than their issues and conditions”. A community garden, funded through the programme, observed that “At least 4 members of the group have spent some time in hospital due to severe depression and have talked about how much the group is helping with their recovery alongside the medical treatment they are receiving”.
Anthony Hurd, Programme Manager for Green Social Prescribing at HEY Smile Foundation, shared his excitement:
“The results have been inspiring. We’ve seen first-hand how nature can help people feel happier, healthier, and more connected. It’s been an amazing journey working with so many passionate teams across Humber and North Yorkshire, and we can’t wait to keep pushing the boundaries of what Green Social Prescribing can achieve. The future of mental health care needs nature – and we’re ready to make it happen.”
Dr Hannah Armitt, Clinical Research Psychologist at Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust and Clinical Lead on the GSP project has been delighted with the results.
“These findings are really exciting for clinicians as our participants included those in secondary care as well as primary care services. There is huge potential for the use of outdoor and in nature activities within clinical services to improve individuals’ wellbeing and quality of life. GSP could support individuals on waiting lists as well as seeking to address inequalities to healthcare access’.
Dr Armitt’s expertise was key to the success of the project as she initially set up the cohorts and devised the recording measures for participants
Green Social Prescribing isn’t just effective – it’s also incredibly cost-efficient. Every £1 invested in the national programme, saw a return of £2.42, making GSP a highly valuable intervention compared to more traditional treatments. With the average cost per participant at only £507, Green Social Prescribing is proving to be one of the most accessible and impactful mental health solutions available today.
Building on this success, HEY Smile Foundation has secured additional funding from the National Lottery’s Community Fund to continue their life-changing work. Through their “Growing Green and Blue Health” initiative, Smile is working to expand access to outdoor activities while facilitating the training of more local providers in cutting-edge mental health approaches, including Mental Health First Aid, Neurodiversity and the Outdoors, and Dementia and the Outdoors.
This investment ensures that Green Social Prescribing will continue to thrive in Humber and North Yorkshire, providing transformative support for people of all ages and backgrounds.
As the conversation around mental health continues to evolve, the HEY Smile Foundation is leading the way with bold, innovative solutions. By embedding nature-based activities into the heart of our healthcare system, Smile is proving that mental health care can be sustainable, accessible, and life-changing.
For more information or to get involved in this transformative work, contact us at GreenSP@heysmilefoundation.org
Media Contact:
Tracy Underwood
Email: hello@heysmilefoundation.org