NHS Recovery allotment requires support to continue

“Our service users dig, socialise and share food harvested from the plot together. Rhubarb crumble, pumpkin soups, tomato chutney, leek tarts, potato salad – we’ve been feasting! Tackling food inequality and nature connection in one lovely space.”

Bekki Pugh is describing the NHS Recovery Allotment in Speedwell, part of Avon & Wiltshire Partnership (AWP) green recovery service which works to support people with mental health problems to access nature for health benefits.

The project began in January 2023 with a weekly social group for service users to take part in gardening, crafts and woodwork. It now also offers a six-week Womxn’s Nature Connection course and 1:1 sessions for those that struggle in groups.

But it requires extra funding if it is to continue.

Service users have been amazed by the variety of fruit and vegetables they’ve been able to grow at the allotment

The project is part of a wider trend across Bristol and beyond, led by the NHS Healthier with Nature programme, encouraging nature connection for wellbeing. From wild swimming to foraging and forest bathing, people are being prescribed a dose of nature to tackle health conditions, addiction recovery, social isolation and more.

Success is based on the setting and therapeutic nature of activities on offer, alongside consistency and companionship.

“It’s using nature as a third pillar to focus on,” says Bekki, Recovery Allotment Coordinator within the AWP Central & East Recovery Team.

“We’re out on the land, working side by side, growing, harvesting, eating together. Looking after the plants, you’re looking after yourself.

“Being outdoors and surrounded by nature, with inspiration from all the allotments around – it feels like a fruitful, nurturing place; a nice green space for people to just be.”

It provides an opportunity to talk, if and when people need it, says Bekki.

“A lot of people feel seen and listened to in this space. If someone’s going through a tough time, it’s much easier for people to talk as others have a deeper understanding and may have similar lived experience.”

The allotment has supported all ages and people with varying mental health diagnoses, including older isolated men and people with severe agoraphobia. It has even gone on to provide paid employment for two regular service user involvees.

Now the Central & East team are undertaking a 21-mile hike on September 9 to raise money to maintain the allotment for another season.

The allotment in full swing in June 2023

Funding will go towards a wildlife pond, climbers to create a blooming archway tunnel, compost, seeds, tools, and a bench in a tranquil spot near lavender bushes for peaceful reflection.

The benefits of nature for health and wellbeing are widely reported. Natural England profess “It’s plain to see the power of nature is essential for our health”, citing “more and more studies” in support including a 2021 systematic review.

Bekki and team hope people will feel inspired to sponsor their hike to support the project’s continuation. “Despite the challenge, the team continue to rally around the allotment because we know it’s such a positive space for both service users and staff,” she says.

To find out more and donate click here.

All photos: Bekki Pugh.

This piece of independent journalism is supported by The Extra Mile and the Bristol24/7 public and business membership.

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