‘Adventure on social prescription’ – Study in partnership with University of Lancashire

Social prescribing is a recognised approach by the NHS to improve mental and physical health.

The Wallich has offered trauma-informed adventure-based activities in North Wales to its service users to help break the cycle of homelessness, in partnership with Denbighshire Council, Ways of Mindfulness and Rohan.

Adventure activities by social prescription could include:

• Hiking
• Caving
• Rock climbing
• Kayaking
• Abseiling
• Walking in green spaces
• Camping
• and more

Many activities promote movement, present new, exciting experiences and utilise the outdoors.

Does social prescription work?

This study, in partnership with the University of Lancashire, provides evidence that connecting people affected by homelessness and hardship to adventure activities in their community, helps them meet the practical, social and emotional needs that affect their health and wellbeing.

The study followed participants taking part in a 10-week programme with The Wallich in North Wales.

Notable findings from ‘The Wallich: Adventure on social prescription’

Authors: Edwards-Smith, A., Asghar, A., Akhtar, Z., Malik, N., Jibreel, R.H. & Pywell, S. – University of Lancashire

During the research period, people involved in the programme reported significantly improved wellbeing and ‘sense of self’ after social prescription of adventure activities.

The programme strengthened social relationships, identity and hop for the future.

Participants and facilitators felt the programme was helpful to recovery and helped reduce substance use.

Improved wellbeing and sense of self

“Clients reported that being outdoors led to feeling less anxious”

• Participants reported increased confidence, autonomy, ability to manage problems and feeling good about themselves.
• Improved relaxation, mood, energy and clarity of thought.
• Referrers and mountain leaders observed reduced anxiety, healthier lifestyles and better emotional regulation.
• Participants who took part reduced their drug or alcohol intake, as well as other harmful behaviour.

Stronger relationships and identity shifts

• The programme built trusting, supportive relationships with peers, The Wallich staff and leaders.
• Participants felt less isolated.
• Outside of the programme, family dynamics improved for some participants.
• Participants’ self-identity shifted from negative labels (for example: “addict”) to more positive identities such as “outdoor enthusiast”
• Many group members maintained friendships and continued engagement in outdoor activities.
• In some cases, group members moved into volunteering or employment.

Hope, future focus and lack of progression pathways

“Better confidence and a drive for life.”

• Participants described greater hope, interest in new activities.
• Signs of more future-focused goal setting, with no reports of pessimism during the programme.

Samantha Pywell, Lead: Social Prescribing Unit, Centre for Community Connectedness and Cooperation, University of Lancashire, said:

“Our research team worked in partnership with The Wallich to co-produce research reflective of their remit.

Adventure on Social Prescribing is an impactful area of practice necessitating further research.”

Ben Roberts, Wellbeing and Engagement Mentor at The Wallich, said:

“The outdoor programme’s impact goes beyond the 10-weeks. The benefits to people who often feel excluded or alone are undeniable.

“Across the board, time and time again, we’ve seen people who are struggling with their mental health feel brighter and more positive by taking part in our activities.

“Programmes like this can really support people’s lives, giving them purpose and connection that everyone needs.”

What next?

With overwhelmingly positive outcomes for people supported by The Wallich, the charity will continue to source funding for adventure activities for the purposes of social prescription.

This report will be presented at the 2026 NatureMind Summit, hosted by Mind Over Mountains and the University of Lancashire, in collaboration with leading policy makers and practitioners of UK green social prescribing.