Allotment Open Day showcases mental health support in green spaces

The Haven Allotment recently held their annual Open Day highlighting the positive impact working outside and in natural environments can have on mental health. The allotment is run by the staff and clients of the Haltemprice Mental Health Team, part of Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust. The event was well attended by clients of the service and their relatives, as well as representatives from the Bakersville Allotment and the Trust’s Voluntary Services and Estates Team.

The day gave clients the opportunity to showcase their hard work from growing produce from seed, developing their skills and confidence and providing a safe, therapeutic space for everyone to enjoy.

Research shows that gardening and accessing green spaces can support a person’s mental and physical health. The plant-person relationship is also said to enable people to experience and develop self-care, which is a transferable skill for other important areas of an individual’s life.

Jon Newton, Clinical Lead, said “A fantastic day, it really reinforced the importance of the service and the positive impact it has on people’s lives. The passion shown by staff, volunteers and clients was clear throughout, and it was genuinely moving to hear the stories of recovery, empowerment and the skills people have developed through the support provided.”

The Adult Community Mental Health Service for Haltemprice, which runs the Haven Allotment, provides specialist, recovery-focused support for working-age adults living with enduring mental health conditions. Delivered through a partnership between East Riding of Yorkshire Council and Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust, the multidisciplinary team works closely with individuals, their families, carers, GPs and other local services to deliver personalised care.

Following a comprehensive assessment, clients of the service receive an individual care and support plan tailored to their unique needs, strengths and recovery goals.

The service delivers high-quality, responsive and inclusive care, helping people build independence, improve their wellbeing and work towards sustained recovery within their local community.

Find out more about the Adult Community Mental Health Service.