RESEARCH

A Qualitative Study of the Barriers to Commissioning Social and Therapeutic Horticulture in Mental Health Care

This qualitative study used semi-structured interviews with UK mental health care commissioners to identify barriers to commissioning Social and Therapeutic Horticulture (STH). The study found that a lack of knowledge about STH, prioritization of traditional medical models, and challenges for STH providers in meeting large-scale commissioning requirements were key barriers.
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Summary

This qualitative study investigated the barriers to commissioning Social and Therapeutic Horticulture (STH) within mental health care in the UK. Researchers conducted semi-structured interviews via Zoom with nine individuals involved in mental health care commissioning, including those who refer patients and those in senior commissioning roles. Participants were selected to represent diverse experiences with STH and various regions of the UK. The interviews explored factors influencing commissioning decisions, perceptions of STH’s role, barriers to its commissioning, and potential solutions.

The study found that commissioners identified a lack of knowledge about STH and its evidence base, alongside a prioritization of traditional medical models, as key barriers. Additionally, challenges for STH providers in meeting large-scale commissioning requirements were noted. The researchers concluded that to increase STH commissioning, these interventions need to be better integrated into NHS priorities, with readily accessible information on their effectiveness. Collaborative efforts within the STH sector are also needed to enable service commissioning at a larger scale.

Link

Wood, C.J., Morton, G., Rossiter, K. et al. (2024). A qualitative study of the barriers to commissioning social and therapeutic horticulture in mental health care. BMC Public Health, 24(1), 1197.

 

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