TWEETMENT ON THE NHS

Nature prescriptions to improve patients' wellbeing

- DAB VEVERS

SCOTS doctors can now prescribe nature-based activities to help patients - such as bird-watching or walking in the woods.

GPs and other health and social care professionals in Badenoch and Strathspey in the Cairngorms will be able to offer so-called "nature prescriptions" under the scheme.

Working in partnership with NHS Highland, the project is designed to support patients on a tailored basis to connect with nature to feel better.

Activities prescribed can include joining nature groups, physical activity outdoors, learning a skill like gardening or wildlife identification, nature-based volunteering