Roots of recovery within allotment
Mental health patients enjoy project
Patients recovering from mental health difficulties in Motherwell have a further opportunity to become as independent as possible with the help of an allotment project launched by NHS Lanarkshire.
The scheme, led by occupational therapy specialists, sees patients visit the allotment once a week as part of their therapy plan.
Lee Samuel, a specialist occupational therapist, said: “The allotment is part of patient’s therapeutic programme. We prescribe activity for patients to be involved in.
“People with an experience of a mental health problem such as low mood, anxiety, schizophrenia or bipolar can often feel isolated in their homes. This type of environment is very peaceful and inclusive for them.
“Many patients don’t have gardens, therefore they get the opportunity to utilise their skills and share the healthy produce with friends and family.”
The allotment project is suitable for patients with any mental health condition – from those with anxiety to people with early onset dementia.
The individuals who attend the group have their own ideas of what they would like to plant and research this in the town’s library, giving them a sense of ownership of the allotment.
To date, members of the allotment group have built a polytunnel, created a stone compost area and have grown a variety of flowers and vegetables from seed. They are also planning to build raised beds.
Lee added: “The assessment opportunities available within this environment are extremely useful. It provides a very different setting to that of a clinic environment and occupational therapists within the team are able to gain a thorough assessment and observe a number of areas with regards to an individual’s function and skills.
“We make this part of their weekly routine. It gives them time out of the house and also increases their fitness. We have some who come along for six weeks, some who come along for six months and others that come along for longer.”
“Participants are encouraged to cook with the produce that they grow. This year there are plans to pickle beetroot and make a variety of chutneys with the produce. We also plan to bake apple pies from the six apple trees that were planted at the very beginning of the project.”