Member Spotlight: Phoenix Futures on the ‘Restorative Power of the Outdoors’

At Phoenix Futures Scotland, we believe recovery from drugs and alcohol is not only possible, but also transformative. Our mission is to help people reach their full potential, for themselves, their families, and their communities. At the centre of this vision lies our Recovery through Nature (RtN) project, a programme that harnesses the restorative power of the outdoors to support people on their recovery journey.

A pathway to healing

Recovery through Nature is more than a therapeutic programme, it is a pathway to renewal. Participants take part in practical conservation and horticultural projects, finding new purpose in activities that connect them to the natural world. At Phoenix Futures Scotland, RtN is a core part of the programmes we deliver in our residential, housing and community services.

Research shows that time outdoors improves mental health, physical health and recovery outcomes. Getting active on a regular basis helps boost fitness, strength, and energy levels. People who got involved in RtN in our services saw an additional 17% improvement in their physical health compared to those who did not take part.

Being outdoors and moving around can also help the body heal from damage caused by substance use. Plus, sunlight supports better sleep and increases Vitamin D, which can lift your mood, and that can really help with recovery. For alcohol use, there was a 23% improvement in outcomes for those who took part in RtN compared to those who did not. We also see that people who take part in Recovery through Nature are nearly twice as likely to finish their recovery programme.

“Recovery through Nature is more than a therapeutic programme, it is a pathway to renewal.”

In nature, people discover space to slow down, reflect, and restore balance. This is especially vital during early recovery when stress levels are high. The secret to RtN’s success is simple: creating safe, enjoyable environments where learning and growth can flourish.

Rediscovering joy

I am a Living Skills Worker in our Recovery Housing service in Glasgow. From canal banks to hilltops, we have embraced RtN as a way to reconnect with the world around us. We run Recovery through Nature as part of the programme we deliver and each activity offers a fresh perspective, reminding our residents that recovery is not just about overcoming challenges, it is about rediscovering joy.

Earlier this year, we partnered with North-West Recovery Community to deliver a 12-week programme at Hamiltonhill Claypits Local Nature Reserve. Together with local organisations, we offered sessions ranging from forest meditation and fire ceremonies to water sports. The diversity of experiences helped participants see nature not just as scenery, but as an active partner in their recovery.

One participant reflected: “I love the outdoors, but due to my addiction I had been unable to see it. Recovery through Nature has helped me get back out, and I’m able to see and appreciate it again.”

Sharing stories and growing together

Our collaboration with the University of Stirling brought Recovery through Nature to a wider audience through the Green Threads documentary. This project highlighted the profound impact of nature on wellbeing, giving our participants a platform to share their voices and experiences.

At the Concrete Gardens allotment in Glasgow, our residents have embraced our ‘seed to table’ ethos and have learnt to grow, harvest, and cook their own food. This not only provides fresh, healthy meals for our residential service but also teaches valuable life skills. Growing food together shows that recovery, like gardening, requires patience, nurture, and time.

Our work at the Calman Centre at Gartnavel Hospital, alongside the Beatson treatment facility, has been especially meaningful. Our residents have helped develop gardens that support people in recovery, with one sharing: “It feels so good to get out into the community and be able to give something back.”

Celebrating recovery through nature

This year, we are proud to have been shortlisted in the 2025 Nature of Scotland Awards in the Health and Wellbeing category, alongside our wonderful partners at the John Muir Trust. For the past 13 years, participants in our RtN project have been planting trees and growing the Phoenix Forest at Glenlude to celebrate everyone who has successfully passed through one of our programmes.

“The diversity of experiences helped participants see nature not just as scenery, but as an active partner in their recovery.”

Building partnerships, building futures

Partnerships are at the heart of Recovery through Nature. By collaborating with local organisations, we enrich recovery journeys and create lasting connections within communities. These partnerships ensure that participants not only benefit during their time with Phoenix Futures but continue to engage with supportive networks long after.

Whether it is planting a seed, climbing a hill, or simply spending time outdoors, every RtN experience helps people rediscover belonging. As we continue to build partnerships across Scotland, we remain committed to creating spaces where recovery can take root and flourish.