It has been shown that
getting out in the fresh air, growing plants, herbs
and vegetables can be extremely helpful in recovering
from mental health problems. Horticultural therapy can
also be preventative for those who are currently living
stressful lives, feeling anxious or depressed. Having
time out for yourself in a garden setting can play a
major part in keeping you well mentally.
Funded by New Deal and employed by Pitsmoor
Surgery, we will be offering people the opportunity
to take part in developing three allotment plots in
Grimesthorpe. At the moment we are working with the
Wildlife Trust, Green City Action, Burngreave Rangers
and others to get the site ready for early spring. Before
we start we will have a large shed for people to sit
and have a cuppa’ tea in or shelter from the rain,
and a greenhouse and tool shed. When these are in place
we can then begin to get things growing!
Some great ideas have already been made
for how the gardens should be developed and certainly
the views of people who will be working there will also
be included.
We are also looking to recruit Support
Workers who will work alongside people on site. (see
job advert)
Similarly, we would also like to recruit
volunteers who may be interested and have some time
to spare. They may see voluntary work as a step towards
a career in mental health, be retired or have some gardening
skills they want to pass on.
We will soon be sending out referral forms
to Doctors surgeries, Mental Health teams and community
organisations in the area. If is anyone interested in
taking part, either to improve their mental health,
apply for a Support worker post or act as a volunteer,
please contact John Lawson or Helen Warburton on 275
4584 or (0793) 292 7153.
email: greenfingersburn@yahoo.co.uk |
