NHS Green Spaces

Cyrenians' NHS Green Space Projects provide community-based, nature-focused wellbeing opportunities for individuals experiencing mental or physical health difficulties, social isolation, disadvantage or poverty. Delivered in partnership with NHS Lothian, the projects operate from community gardens at Royal Edinburgh Community Hospital and Midlothian Community Hospital, alongside outreach sessions delivered on hospital wards across Edinburgh and the Lothians.

The gardens offer a range of therapeutic and social prescribing opportunities that support physical health, mental wellbeing, recovery and community connection. Participants can engage in gardening, food growing, environmental activities and structured group programmes within a welcoming and supportive setting.  

The service is particularly suited to individuals who may benefit from increased social connection, meaningful activity, confidence-building opportunities and improved wellbeing through engagement with nature. The projects also support inpatients, outpatients and community-based participants, creating flexible pathways into non-clinical wellbeing support.  

In addition to individual referrals, the team works with community groups, healthcare professionals and partner organisations to create opportunities that improve health outcomes and reduce isolation.  

Professionals interested in discussing participation opportunities or partnership working can contact Hannah Macrae (HannahMacrae@cyrenians.scot)