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Social Return on Investment of Nature-Based Activities for Adults with Mental Wellbeing Challenges

Author

Listed:
  • Ned Hartfiel

    (Centre for Health Economics and Medicines Evaluation, Bangor University, Bangor LL57 2PZ, UK)

  • Heli Gittins

    (School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor LL57 2DG, UK)

  • Val Morrison

    (School of Human and Behavioural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor LL57 2AS, UK)

  • Sophie Wynne-Jones

    (School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor LL57 2DG, UK)

  • Norman Dandy

    (School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor LL57 2DG, UK)

  • Rhiannon Tudor Edwards

    (Centre for Health Economics and Medicines Evaluation, Bangor University, Bangor LL57 2PZ, UK)

Abstract

Increased time spent in nature can enhance physical health and mental wellbeing. The UK Government’s ‘25 Year Environment Plan’ recommends extending the health benefits of contact with nature to a wider group of people, including those with mental health challenges. This study investigated whether nature-based interventions (NBIs) for people with mild mental health challenges could generate a positive social return on investment (SROI). Between May 2017 and January 2019, 120 participants at six outdoor sites in Wales participated in a 6 to 12-week NBI, which consisted of a weekly 2- to 4-h session. Quantitative data were collected from baseline and follow-up questionnaires identifying participant demographics and measuring mental wellbeing, physical activity, self-efficacy, and social trust. Wellbeing valuation generated a range of social value ratios by applying the Housing Association Charitable Trust (HACT) Social Value Calculator (SVC 4.0) and HACT Mental Health Social Value Calculator (MHSVC 1.0). Seventy-four participants (62%) completed follow-up questionnaires at 6 months. SROI ratios were calculated using the SVC for physical activity, self-efficacy, and social trust. The MHSVC generated social value ratios for mental wellbeing. The base case results revealed a positive social value ratio for participants, ranging from British Pound Sterling (GBP) 2.57 to GBP 4.67 for every GBP 1 invested, indicating favourable outcomes in terms of value generated.

Suggested Citation

  • Ned Hartfiel & Heli Gittins & Val Morrison & Sophie Wynne-Jones & Norman Dandy & Rhiannon Tudor Edwards, 2023. "Social Return on Investment of Nature-Based Activities for Adults with Mental Wellbeing Challenges," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(15), pages 1-13, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:20:y:2023:i:15:p:6500-:d:1208720
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Sebastian Hinde & Laura Bojke & Peter Coventry, 2021. "The Cost Effectiveness of Ecotherapy as a Healthcare Intervention, Separating the Wood from the Trees," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(21), pages 1-13, November.
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