Benefits of Volunteer Gardening for Well-Being
Author Information
Author(s): Holly Whiteley, John Parkinson, Ned Hartfiel, Abraham Makanjuola, Huw Lloyd-Williams, Catherine Lawrence, Rhiannon Tudor Edwards, Andrew Soundy
Primary Institution: Bangor University
Hypothesis
Can volunteer gardening improve well-being and provide social value?
Conclusion
Volunteer gardening can enhance well-being and generate significant social value, saving costs for the NHS.
Supporting Evidence
- 35 out of 96 volunteers completed the study, showing significant improvements in well-being.
- Volunteers reported a 9% increase in overall health and mental well-being.
- The social return on investment was estimated to be between GBP 4.02 to GBP 5.43 for every GBP 1 invested.
Takeaway
Helping out in a garden can make you feel happier and healthier, and it can also save money for doctors.
Methodology
The study used a natural experiment design and health economics-informed social return on investment evaluation.
Potential Biases
The study may have selection bias due to the voluntary nature of participation.
Limitations
The small sample size and lack of a control group limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
Participants included approximately 74% existing volunteers, 20% student volunteers, and 6% staff volunteers, with a mean age of 55 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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