Beeches go green with gardening group
The sessions have been met with great enthusiasm, with individuals choosing what they would like to grow: including sunflowers, lettuce, tomatoes, spring onions, lavender and even pumpkins.
The group is facilitated by Occupational Therapist Emma Mellor, who designed the sessions using a holistic, therapeutic approach. Activities are meaningful and purposeful, supporting residents’ physical, mental and social wellbeing, with personalised goals in place to monitor progress throughout the programme.
Gardening provides rich sensory experiences, such as the feel of soil and the sounds of nature, while practical tasks help develop motor skills, coordination and strength. The group setting also offers valuable opportunities to build confidence, communication and social interaction in a relaxed, low-pressure environment.
The people we support have particularly enjoyed getting outside and watching their hard work begin to pay off. With the sunflowers already starting to grow, Beeches’ garden will certainly be a beautiful place to spend time this summer.
