Evaluating the impact of nature-based therapy on veterans
Think tank: PBE
Author(s): Jon Franklin
March 2, 2026
This report from UK think tank PBE evaluates the impact of nature-based therapy on veterans.
Veterans have some of the lowest levels of wellbeing, with around 160,000 self-reporting deep dissatisfaction with their lives. They may struggle with chronic health conditions, common mental health disorders and the anxiety which can come with unemployment and the feeling that their lives lack purpose.
The Defence Gardens Scheme provide nature-based therapy as an alternative to traditional solutions. Combining professional support with access to the natural environment, the approach offers an alternative way for people to be introduced to self-care skills and receive the support they need.
We found good evidence that the Defence Gardens Scheme’s nature-based intervention improves veterans wellbeing. Our analysis found that:
Wellbeing outcomes improve by around 0.9 Life Satisfaction points (on a 0-10 scale), compared to a matched comparison group of similar people.
The increase in wellbeing is equivalent to £14,700 wellbeing benefits for each person supported.
For every £1 spent, the programme generated around £5 in wellbeing benefits in 2025, with the potential for an even higher return with changes planned for 2026.
