NatureScot have now published the third thematic report from Scotland’s People and Nature Survey (SPANS) looking at the equality and diversity aspects of our data
This report examines the equality and diversity dimensions of our outdoor recreation data, highlighting differences between population groups in terms of their frequency of visits, the benefits they gain, and the barriers they face when accessing greenspaces and our natural environment. Some key points include:
- There are significant inequalities in outdoor recreation participation. Around three fifths of adults in Scotland visit the outdoors weekly, but this drops sharply among people in poor health, those with low mental wellbeing, residents of the most deprived areas, and people with disabilities or financial struggles. Around one in ten people from these disadvantaged groups never visit the outdoors for recreation.
- The most common barriers to accessing nature include work/time constraints, poor weather, health and mobility issues, along with financial constraints and lack of transport. People who never visit the outdoors are more likely to cite long-term issues like poor health, lack of confidence, or not knowing where to go.
- Most people report benefits from visits taken to the outdoors: 72% cite mental health benefits; 65% cite physical health benefits; 41% feel more connected to nature; and 31% experience social benefits. However, those who could benefit most (e.g. people in poor health or living in deprived areas) are least likely to access or report these benefits.
- Urban greenspaces are vital for disadvantaged groups but are often perceived as less safe, less attractive, and less welcoming in deprived areas. Satisfaction with greenspaces is lower among people in poor health, those with low mental wellbeing, and residents of deprived areas.
Although participants surveyed were adults, this data will also reflect on the lives and opportunities for children and young people in Scotland.
