Stoke Newington “ecotherapy”
Roots and Boots project uses planting to reduce feelings of depression and anxiety
The uplifting powers of gardening were felt this week in Stoke Newington, for an “ecotherapy” project.
Around 300 trees donated by the charity Woodland Trust were planted in Clissold Community Garden in Clissold Road, for the Roots and Boots horticultural therapy programme - run by local charity and social landlord Peter Bedford and community-building charity Groundwork London.
Peter Bedford works alongside people who have faced long term exclusion from society through homelessness, mental health problems or learning difficulties.
“We’re about reconnecting people with nature and each other,” said project co-ordinator Paul Woodmin.
You may also want to watch:
“Planning and creating a productive garden is a tremendously uplifting experience, and the therapeutic benefits of just being in a garden are well known,” he added.
The project was funded by Big Lottery Fund (BIG) through an Ecominds grant distributed the mental health charity Mind.
Most Read
- 1 Jailed: 'Dangerous' Hackney predator found with 1,600 indecent child images
- 2 Police appeal for help to trace wanted Dalston man
- 3 Hackney road closures 'will cost lives', says volunteer ambulance service
- 4 Joint Covid patrols launched to ensure lockdown rules are followed
- 5 'Common sense' prevails as Stamford Hill testing centre moved out of estate
- 6 Covid-safe shared workspaces in Hackney on flexibility without formalities
- 7 Letters: Christchurch Estate, Cllr Burke, Happy Man Tree and CCTV
- 8 Homerton Hospital says 'stay home' after 'major incident' declared
- 9 Lockdown: Thirteen card players busted by police in Hackney social club
- 10 Stoke Newington School looks to raise £60K for student laptops
Mind’s research has shown “ecotherapy” can help people with mental health problems to increase their self-esteem and confidence, and reduce feelings of depression and anxiety.
Fruit from the trees will be used to make jams, jellies and chutneys.