In Richmond upon Thames, we are fortunate to be surrounded by some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in London with tree‑lined river paths, protected reserves, and pockets of green that give our borough its unmistakable calm. But for many residents, especially those struggling with mental health challenges, even stepping outside can feel overwhelming. That’s where Dose of Nature, a small local charity with a powerful mission, is changing lives every day.

Founded in 2019 on a simple but transformative idea that structured time in nature can play a vital role in mental health recovery, Dose of Nature is now a cornerstone of wellbeing support within the borough. Working closely with local GPs, psychologists, and community partners, the charity provides a clinically evidenced programme that helps people reconnect with themselves, with others, and with the world around them.

A Nature-Based Approach Making a Real Difference

Dose of Nature supports adults and young people aged 16 years and over across Richmond upon Thames and neighbouring Kingston Upon Thames who are experiencing anxiety, depression, social isolation, or trauma. Many are referred by local GPs who recognise that their patients need help that is both immediate and compassionate -something that complements traditional services and offers meaningful support while people wait for additional care.

At the heart of their work is the Dose of Nature Prescription: a one‑to‑one, eight‑week programme delivered outdoors by trained Nature Guides. Each participant begins with an assessment from a psychologist and is then supported weekly through guided sessions in natural environments. These sessions are carefully structured to create an experience designed to encourage calm, confidence, emotional regulation, and connection.

Their Richmond base is set within the tranquil Pensford Field Nature Reserve in Kew, making it accessible yet secluded - a perfect setting for people who need a gentle reintroduction to the outdoors.

Beyond the core programme, Dose of Nature also offers open-ended, drop‑in wellbeing groups, allowing participants to maintain progress, build community, and develop positive habits long after their formal sessions end.

Quiet but Powerful Transformations

While the charity’s work is grounded in evidence - including a two‑year research project with the London School of Economics - the stories from the people they support are perhaps the most compelling measure of impact.

One participant shared:

“Before joining Dose of Nature I was barely leaving the house. I felt anxious and disconnected. The sessions gave me a reason to get outside and a group where I felt safe. After a few weeks my mood improved and I started going for walks on my own. It gave me confidence again.”

These are the transformations Dose of Nature sees day after day: someone who begins smiling again, someone who starts volunteering, someone who returns to work, or someone who simply feels able to enjoy everyday life. These small shifts build into life-changing momentum for people who have often felt stuck for a long time.

Addressing Local Challenges Head-On

Richmond upon Thames is a vibrant, affluent borough, yet mental health challenges are widespread and affect people from all walks of life.  As people navigate stress, isolation, and pressure in their professional and personal lives, mental health issues can and do arise. Support services are stretched, and the wait for clinical help can leave people feeling lost just when they need care most.

Dose of Nature provides accessible, early intervention that helps people stabilise, reconnect socially, and rebuild resilience. Their work not only improves individual wellbeing but strengthens community ties and reduces pressure on local health pathways.

How Richmond Businesses Can Make a Difference

As a charity working at the heart of this community, Dose of Nature relies on the support of local businesses to expand its reach. There are several meaningful ways to get involved:

Volunteer Your Time

Businesses can encourage employees to volunteer as:

  • Nature Guides (training provided)
  • Communications, fundraising, or events support
  • Governance and professional skills volunteers

The most important qualities? Openness, compassion, and a willingness to listen.

Partner with Them

Richmond businesses can:

  • Join in team volunteering days
  • Co‑host wellbeing or awareness events
  • Sponsor programmes or specific campaigns

These partnerships create visibility, community benefit, and improved staff wellbeing.

Support Through Funding

Donations, large or small, help the charity reach more people, reduce waiting lists, and keep programmes accessible to those in need. Fundraising events, corporate giving, or becoming a regular donor can all have a huge impact.

Building a Healthier, More Connected Richmond

Looking ahead, Dose of Nature hopes to grow its programmes to ensure more residents can access support when they need it. Their aspiration is simple yet profound: to help create a community where struggles are met with understanding, help is readily available, and no one feels they must face life alone.

Richmond’s business community has always played a vital role in shaping the wellbeing and resilience of the borough. Partnering with Dose of Nature is an opportunity to make a meaningful, lasting difference - supporting the mental health of the people who live and work here while strengthening our collective connection to the local environment.

Sometimes, recovery begins with a single step outside. With your support, Dose of Nature can help more people take that step.

For those wishing to learn more, or get involved please visit and follow!