Defence Gardens Scheme
Nature based therapy for the Armed Forces community
Defence Gardens Scheme supports members of the Armed Forces community through evidence-based nature-based therapy, horticulture and recovery programmes delivered in gardens across the UK.
“Creating spaces where veterans can recover, reconnect and build resilience through nature.”
Resilience & Recovery
10-week therapeutic programme supporting wellbeing and recovery.
Cultivate & Connect
One-day workshops reducing isolation and building community.
Grow Your Own
Practical horticulture, food growing and resilience skills.
DGS Scotland
Current and developing delivery across Scotland including:
- Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh workshops
- Highland Roots programme development
- Veteran growing and wellbeing opportunities
- Community partnerships across Highlands and beyond
Who can access DGS?
✔ Veterans
✔ Service Leavers
✔ Reservists
✔ Serving personnel
✔ Families & spouses (where applicable)
Referral routes:
Self-referral | Partner referral | Veteran organisations | Healthcare pathways
Services
Defence Gardens Scheme (DGS) is a national network of gardens which host the delivery and evaluation of nature-based therapy for Armed Forces Service Leavers, Veterans and their Families.