Here are five highlights from the year.

1. More people than ever accessed a Nature Prescription

Over the past 12 months, 547 people experiencing mental health difficulties received a Dose of Nature Prescription. Since launching in 2019, we have now delivered more than 2,000 Nature Prescriptions. 

Each prescription combines psychological expertise, the restorative benefits of nature and the support of a dedicated volunteer Guide. Together, these elements help people recover, reconnect with the natural world around them and develop lasting habits that support their wellbeing.

2. Our outcomes continue to demonstrate strong results

We are committed to measuring the effectiveness of our work.

In 2025-26, our data showed a 68% recovery rate and an 84% reliable improvement rate among participants, alongside substantial reductions in anxiety and depression scores. 

Behind every statistic is a person finding their own path forward, whether that means returning to work, building confidence, reconnecting socially or simply beginning to feel hopeful again.

3. Landmark research strengthened the evidence for Nature Prescriptions

One of the year's biggest achievements was the completion of an independent randomised controlled trial with the London School of Economics and Political Science. Conducted over two and a half years with more than 375 participants, it is one of the most comprehensive evaluations of a Nature Prescription programme undertaken to date. 

The findings showed significant improvements in mental health, life satisfaction, social connectedness and sense of purpose. Researchers also calculated that every £1 invested in a Dose of Nature Prescription generates more than £8 of social value.

As interest in nature-based healthcare continues to grow, this research provides an increasingly robust evidence base for the work we do.

4. Young people remained a key focus

The mental health challenges facing young people continue to be significant, and we are committed to providing positive, engaging and accessible support.

During the year, we supported more than 100 young people through our Nature Prescription Programme, reached 194 students through our first school-based intervention and delivered training, workshops and talks across schools, colleges and universities.

We were particularly encouraged to see strong outcomes from our pilot schools programme, with 85% of participating students reporting improvements in their mental health. 

5. Community continues long after the prescription ends

One of the unique aspects of a Dose of Nature Prescription is that support does not end when a prescription finishes.

Our year-round programme of nature-based groups gives people ongoing opportunities to spend time outdoors, develop friendships and remain part of a welcoming community. Activities range from walking to gardening, arts & crafts, kayaking, yoga, creative writing and conservation. 

These groups reflect something we see time and again: recovery often happens not only through individual support, but through connection with nature, with other people and with a sense of belonging.

Looking ahead

As we look towards the future, our ambition remains clear: to make high quality Nature Prescriptions available to many more people while protecting the personalised, evidence-based approach that makes them so effective.

With plans to grow through new hubs, partnerships and our membership model, we believe nature can play an increasingly important role in supporting the nation's mental health. 

To everyone who has supported Dose of Nature this year, whether as a client, volunteer, donor, funder, partner or advocate, thank you. Together, we are helping more people discover something they can draw on for life: a meaningful relationship with nature.