Prescription for wellbeing: a dose of fresh air

Laura White, Walking Network Manager

Social prescribing is when doctors and health professionals refer people to activities, groups, and services in their community. This could be volunteering, gardening, or walking groups.

Social prescribing can be a powerful tool in healthcare. GPs, practice nurses and link workers are increasingly signposting patients to community-based activities. These can help people improve their health and wellbeing by addressing practical, social and emotional needs. This could be alongside clinical treatments and medication.

In our Walking and Wheeling Survey 2025 we found that:

• 5% of people report walking or wheeling every day due to a referral
• This rises significantly to 11% among 16–24 year olds
• 8% of 35–44 year olds walk or wheel every day due to a referral
• This drops to 3% for those aged 55–64
• 8% engage in walking or wheeling several times a week
• Participation is higher among 25–34 year olds (14%) and 35–44 year olds (12%)
• Lower rates are seen in 45–54 year olds (4%) and 55–64 year olds (4%)

This shows that Scotland’s healthcare system is already prescribing walking.

The Scottish Government’s Population Health Framework 2025-2035 shared an ambition to develop a National Social Prescribing Framework for Scotland. It looks at examples of how social prescribing is already working to support effective new models.

Why Health Walks work as social prescribing

Health Walks run by Walking Network members are short, free, and inclusive. They are adaptable to different fitness levels and abilities. This makes them a simple yet effective intervention for a wide range of individuals.

They offer not only manageable levels of physical activity, but opportunities for social connection. They also help people get into green spaces. These 3 things are all known to improve health.

For many patients, the routine of regular walks with the same starting point and time each week can offer a helpful and reassuring structure. This is especially true for those managing long-term conditions or mental health challenges.

Health Walks also empower individuals to take an active role in their own health. Rather than being passive recipients of care, participants become part of a supportive community. They build habits that can lead to long-term lifestyle changes and improved wellbeing.

Growing referrals

So, how do we grow the number of social prescribing referrals to Health Walks?

Awareness-raising is key. Our Walking Network team is looking at ways to promote 250 Walking Network members across Scotland to healthcare professionals. Building strong relationships with healthcare providers means that they feel confident in recommending walking as a meaningful intervention.

We’re also making sure resources are accessible for easy referral or signposting. We’re learning from the experiences of members who are already working with their GP practice to understand what works well and where we can make improvements.

We’re making sure there are Health Walks for healthcare professionals to signpost to. This includes supporting Walking Network members with volunteer training, access to funding opportunities, practical advice and resources. These are all vital to growing and sustaining local programmes for people to join.

As social prescribing continues to evolve, Health Walks have a big role to play in both preventative healthcare and recovery. Sometimes the most effective prescription isn’t found in a pharmacy, but just outside the front door.

Health Walks are open to anyone to attend without a referral – find one near you.

Published: 26 March 2026