Group: Heart and Soul Hub CIC
Project: Community garden and allotment
Grant: £9,520
Fund: General
Research supported by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI/Innovate UK) and the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) shows that spending time in the garden can significantly benefit both physical and mental wellbeing, helping to reduce depression and anxiety symptoms.
With funding from Heart of Bucks, Heart and Soul Hub CIC have created a community garden and allotment at their base in Wycombe Airpark, where they support adults recovering from mental illness. The garden features raised beds to ensure accessibility, along with a large 35ft polytunnel that enables seed sowing and propagation throughout the year, even during poor weather.
Fruit and vegetables are now grown year round and are either sold from a pop up shop to the local community, or used to prepare meals in the onsite kitchen. Working from seed and nurturing plants through to harvest has not only helped build confidence, but has also enabled beneficiaries to learn new skills and work together effectively as a team. Many participants have regained a sense of purpose and achievement, improving their overall wellbeing.
As part of the service, beneficiaries are offered support with CV writing and interview techniques to help them move into employment or volunteering. Learning gardening and horticultural skills has strengthened their personal experience and broadened their skillsets.
Mental health recovery is a complex issue. As a result of funding, Heart and Soul Hub has made a meaningful difference to people’s physical and mental wellbeing, while also enhancing their practical skills and employability. Beneficiaries are signposted to appropriate counselling services where needed, and some go on to secure full-time employment as a result of their renewed confidence and capabilities. Many who move on from the service continue to return to the garden, volunteering their time and sharing their skills with new participants, helping to sustain a supportive and thriving community.
Read more of our funding stories here.
