Experts in substance use at the university have created how-to guidance manuals for nature-based programmes, otherwise known as greenspace programmes, that promote health through activities such as gardening, conservation, and forest walks. This builds on previous work by the team that has evidenced why these types of programmes appear to work for poor mental health and substance dependence.

The guidance has been created in collaboration with existing greenspace programme participants, staff, health professionals, and strategic decision makers, following growing evidence to support the positive effects of nature on health and wellbeing for people experiencing challenges with their mental health and with drugs and/or alcohol.

The manuals provide guidance around initial engagement conversations, risk assessment, service delivery, evaluation, and post-programme support.

As well as considerations around pre-programme planning, and examples of what activities lead to beneficial outcome during sessions, the guidance includes tips on both established and more creative ways to measure participation, including arts and crafts, journalling, and prompts to encourage activity.

The team, based in the University of Stirling’s Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, is currently sharing the new resources with health and social care practitioners, through in-person and online events.

The development of the manuals, funded by the Scottish government’s Chief Scientist’s Office, follows the release of figures in June by Police Scotland showing suspected drug deaths in Scotland rose by 33 per cent, to 308, between January and March 2025, compared to the previous quarter.

Scotland continues to have the highest rate of drug- and alcohol-specific deaths in the UK, with 1,172 drug deaths and 1,277 alcohol-specific deaths in 2023, according to the National Records of Scotland. The latest statistics are expected next week.

Dr Wendy Masterton, senior lecturer in criminology specialising in substance use at the University of Stirling, said: “We know from our own and other research the positive changes people with drug and alcohol problems experience when they take part in nature-based programmes – for example, feelings of purpose, improved social interactions, increased physical activity, and escaping the stresses of daily life. However, there are often limited opportunities for them to take part in nature-based activities.

“These manuals provide tools for designing these programmes so that development can be easier and the programmes may be as effective as possible. The responses from researchers and practitioners in the field so far have been very positive. We hope they can lead to more greenspace initiatives and positive outcomes for people with poor mental health and substance dependence.”