Transformational Nature Based Prescriptions
Executive Summary
The Transformational Nature-Based Prescriptions (TNP) project evaluates the impact and value of the Defence Gardens Scheme’s structured nature-based therapy programme for veterans, service leavers, and their families. The programme supports individuals experiencing poor wellbeing, social isolation, or challenges transitioning from military to civilian life.
TNP was designed to address a major evidence gap in nature-based therapy by generating robust, policy-relevant research. Using a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative wellbeing analysis, economic evaluation, and qualitative research, the study provides one of the most comprehensive assessments of a nature-based intervention for the Armed Forces community.
Key Findings
1. Significant improvements in wellbeing
Participants experienced statistically significant improvements in life satisfaction and mental wellbeing during the programme. Compared with a matched population dataset, participation in the programme was associated with an average 0.9-point increase in life satisfaction, a large effect in wellbeing research terms.
Participants also reported reduced anxiety, improved mood, increased confidence, stronger social connections, and a renewed sense of purpose. Many described the programme as life-changing and a critical step in rebuilding identity and connection after service.
2. Strong economic value
Using HM Treasury wellbeing valuation methods, the programme generates an estimated £14,700 in societal value per participant. This equates to approximately £118,000 of social value per course, compared with an average delivery cost of around £24,000.
The resulting benefit–cost ratio is approximately £4.90 for every £1 invested, with sensitivity analysis suggesting potential returns between £2.50 and £7.40 per £1 depending on how long wellbeing improvements persist.
These estimates are likely conservative because they do not fully capture wider benefits such as reduced NHS demand, improved employment outcomes, or gains in family wellbeing.
3. A scalable model for community-based support
Qualitative research identifies a clear set of mechanisms that underpin programme effectiveness, including veteran-only groups, outdoor non-clinical environments, social connection, and structured practical activity. Together these elements create psychologically safe environments where participants can rebuild confidence, relationships, and a sense of identity.
The evaluation shows that these mechanisms can be codified and replicated across multiple sites, demonstrating that the model is both scalable and adaptable while maintaining programme fidelity.
Implications for Policy and Investment
The evidence demonstrates that the Defence Gardens Scheme delivers measurable and cost-effective improvements in wellbeing for veterans and their families. It also shows that nature-based therapy can move beyond promising practice to become a credible, evidence-based component of community mental health and social prescribing systems.
With sustained investment and integration into statutory referral pathways, the model has the potential to play a transformative role in strengthening preventative, community-based support for the Armed Forces community across the UK.