413 Green and Blue Social Prescribing: Enhancing Mental Health and Well-Being in Migrant Children and Families

Abstract EP3.4, e-Poster Terminal 3, September 4, 2025, 11:35 - 13:00 Aims Migrant children and their families often face unique challenges that affect their mental health and well-being, including social isolation, psychosocial distress, and barriers to healthcare and integration. Traditional mental health interventions may not fully address the complex needs of migrant populations, emphasizing the need for community-based solutions that consider social, environmental, and cultural factors. The “CONNECT” project aims to enhance the mental health and well-being of migrant children aged 6 to 12 years with psychosocial needs, integrating nature-based activities like community gardening, outdoor arts, surfing, and conservation volunteering. Children and families are referred by professionals to link workers who co-design a personalized plan based on their needs and preferences. This study will evaluate the intervention’s acceptability, feasibility, and effectiveness. Methods The project will be implemented in four deprived communities in Portugal with a high migrant population. Over at least 8 weeks, children will participate in nature-based activities, averaging 90 minutes of exposure per week. A mixed-methods approach will be used, including a randomized controlled trial with an intervention group and waitlist control group, assessing outcomes at three time points (pre-intervention, post-intervention, and follow-up). Implementation science frameworks will guide the identification of barriers and facilitators for the scalability and sustainability. Data collection includes questionnaires, interviews, focus groups, and photovoice. Expected Results This intervention is expected to improve psychosocial well-being, foster social connections, and promote a sense of belonging, empowering migrant communities. It aims to reduce health disparities by ensuring accessibility and cultural sensitivity, providing evidence support for green and blue social prescribing as a scalable and sustainable community-based mental health strategy. Conclusion The “CONNECT” project potentially offers a culturally sensitive approach to improving the mental health and well-being of migrant children and their families by integrating green and blue social prescribing.