Barriers and enablers to effective GSP
GSP – green social prescription
NBHA – nature-based health activity. Either self-conducted or provided by a (usually 3rd sector) group.
Barriers
There are several barriers to be aware of when prescribing:
Transport accessibility
Weather (suitable clothing)
Food (if taking part in a lengthy activity, some people may not be able to take food with them)
Social and cultural factors
Issues around anxiety
Issues around affordability
Be aware that people living in an area of high deprivation may struggle to find high-quality, safe green-space areas in their neighbourhood.
Older people who are experiencing ageing-related issues may face challenges around physical capabilities and may be anxious about the risk of falls and other accidents.
Some GPs have told us they are reluctant to broach the topic in case the patient responds badly but evidence shows that most patients respond well to the idea.
Because most groups who provide NBHAs are 3rd sector organisations, funding can be erratic so it is important to have up-to-date information about their current status.
Enablers
Many groups who provide NBHAs have the ability to assign a volunteer to “buddy” a new participant.
Being prescribed something that can be performed immediately instead of a lengthy wait for a NHS service can be appealing.
Providing a prescription rather than a suggestion gives the suggestion significant extra authority and can empower a patient to act.
Older people sometimes associate nature-based activities with childhood memories of being in nature.
