Regular use of an open greenspace is associated with a 43% lower risk of poor general health…
Understanding the health benefits of Camden & Islington parks
Parks for Health is a major programme to transform the parks and green spaces in Camden & Islington for now and future generations. Our parks will change from being passive enablers of physical and mental health outcomes to places that have a central role in reducing health inequalities, increasing social cohesion, reducing social isolation, increasing physical health, mental health and well-being.
We want to ensure parks are inclusive, attractive and accessible for all, reaching those with the greatest needs and building partnerships with the wider health and voluntary sectors to ensure parks and green spaces are much more central to our collective vision of a healthy Camden & Islington.
So, what does the evidence tells us about parks’ contribution to health?
Access to high quality parks and greenspaces is associated with better health outcomes
Regular use (at least once a week) of open space/ park or woods/ forest is associated with a 43% lower risk of poor general health.
Residents of areas with a lot of greenery (including parks, trees, street planting, etc.,) are 40% less likely to be overweight or obese.
“Two hours contact with green space reduces risk of poor health by 45%”
Access to parks is associated with increased physical activity
Populations with access to a park are 20% less at risk of physical inactivity and are 24% more likely to meet physical activity recommendations.
A 2019 study found that 89% of ParkRun participants reported improvements to their fitness and 85% reported improvements to their health.
Parks and greenspaces provide a focal point for communities
A 2013 study by the Scottish Government of the Walk Glasgow programme found that those who are extremely socially isolated and excluded reported being able to meet new people and form new independent friendships through parks.
Access to parks is associated with improved mental health and wellbeing for residents
Each additional use of any natural environment per week is associated with 6% lower risk of poor mental health.
A 2013 study found that regular use of natural environments for physical activity can cut the risk of suffering poor mental health by half.
69% of ParkRun participants reported improvements to their mental health and 79% of ParkRun participants reported improvements to their happiness.
Bringing it back to the local need: maximising the use of parks is so important for Camden & Islington
71% of residents in Islington and 61% in Camden live in flats and do not have direct access to private greenspace.
50,000 adults in Camden experience depression and anxiety – 20% higher than national levels. In 2013 Camden spent £379 per head per year on mental health compared to £212 in England.
1 in 6 adults in Islington have at least one diagnosed mental health condition.
Parks are key infrastructure for health provision, providing the context for residents to make healthier decisions by default. Which is why, in Camden & Islington, an area with health inequalities and lack of access to greenspace, we are trying to maximise access to our parks to make the most of them for all.
Blog by Tamsin Fisher, Senior Project Officer, June 2021
