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South Wales Argus

Newport is first Welsh city to prescribe nature as medicine

Newport has become the first city in Wales to launch RSPB Nature Prescriptions, a non-medical approach to health that encourages people to connect with the natural world through simple, self-led activities. The scheme is delivered in partnership with the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board. David Llewellyn, nature and wellbeing manager at RSPB Cymru, said: "There is strong evidence which shows that spending time in nature reduces stress and anxiety while lowering blood pressure and boosting immunity through increased physical activity." The project is funded through the People's Postcode Lottery and builds on similar schemes already running in Scotland and England. Nature prescriptions can be offered by a range of trained professionals. These include GPs, social prescribers, occupational therapists, and community stroke support teams. Jonny Currie, a GP at Ringland Medical Practice, said: "As a GP in Newport, I know we need new ways to enable people to support their own wellbeing and health. "We know that connecting with nature can play a crucial role in doing this. "The RSPB Nature Prescriptions offer a great opportunity to help in doing that and we look forward to using them in our practice." Public support for the scheme appears strong. A recent survey by Beaufort Research found that 80 per cent of people believe spending time in nature is important for their health and wellbeing. Victoria Dyer, service development lead for the Integrated Wellbeing Network at Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, said: "This project is a perfect example of partnership working, with the contributions from our talented community playing a vital role in the imagery for this nature prescription. "We thank the RSPB for the opportunity and feel very proud to bring this resource to Newport and hope that many people will benefit from it." The RSPB hopes that the scheme will not only improve wellbeing but also foster a lasting appreciation of nature and a desire to protect it. More information about RSPB Nature Prescriptions is available on the RSPB website.