Gardens play a powerful role in the care of our minds and bodies

Our partner, the National Gardens Scheme (NGS), has launched a groundbreaking report with The King's Fund, calling for greater recognition of the health benefits of gardening.

The new report claims that gardens play a powerful role in the care of our minds and bodies and should be used more systematically in our health and social care system.

How gardening can help

The health benefits of gardens are broad and diverse according to the report. It suggests that they can play a role in promoting good health and preventing ill-health, with potential long-term implications for healthcare costs. It shows how access to gardens has been linked to:

Reduced depression, loneliness, anxiety and stress

Benefits for various conditions including heart disease, cancer and obesity

Better balance which can help to prevent falls in older people (a cause of major NHS costs)

Alleviating symptoms of dementia

Improving sense of personal achievement among children

Alan Nokes first opened his garden for the NGS in 2004 and it has been a source of enjoyment and excitement ever since: "I'd just been made redundant and decided to retire. Gardening used to be an escape from the trials and tribulations of work, but it also helped me through the initial shock of being diagnosed with Parkinson's.

"The exercise helps keep me going and gives me a determination not to give in."

Find out more

If you would like to find out more about the report or get a copy, please get in touch: [email protected].

We're extremely honoured to be the first guest charity in the 89-year history of the NGS to become a permanent partner. To date, our partnership has raised an incredible £622,000 to provide vital care to some of the 127,000 people living with Parkinson's in the UK.