Residents from Harbour Housing have been going to the Eden Project this month to take part in its social and therapeutic horticulture sessions at the Vounder Training Garden.
Joined by Eden’s Horticultural Therapists, residents have been gaining new skills during the sessions and have been learning to grow flowers, fruit, and vegetables in the training garden.
Alongside this, there is also the opportunity for residents to pursue a Level 1 Award in Practical Horticulture from the Royal Horticultural Society, meaning they can gain a qualification and up-skill from the visits.
The positive impact that gardening has on wellbeing and mental health is being researched, with one study from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) reporting that regular gardening can reduce stress and improve wellbeing, leading the RHS to encourage the public to get a regular dose of ‘Vitamin G.’
Alongside Vitamin G, gardening sessions can be a source of great exercise, helping to build strength and improve physical health.
All these wonderful factors mean that heading to Eden’s training garden is a fantastic way for residents to boost their wellbeing, confidence and mental health, all whilst getting their hands dirty and learning new skills.
Tom Pritchard, Harbour’s Volunteering and Activities Coordinator, has also been attending the sessions: “Going to Eden is brilliant for the residents! They’re getting involved with plants and nature and really getting stuck in as a team in a new environment.
“Being in such a lush open space is so good for wellbeing and mental health; plus, a good dose of sunshine and fresh air is a hugely beneficial for everyone.
“It’s also a great space for a bit of mindfulness and reflection when you’re up there as it’s so peaceful and quiet – I think it’s a wonderful initiative.”
A big thanks to Eden for having us!
19th May
Last year, Tim Styles, cycled from Land’s End to John o’ Groats unsupported in under five days. Next month, he is going one better: Land’s End to John o’ Groats AND back down to Land's End!
6th April
Over the last few months at Harbour, we have been putting together and distributing warm packs to help people on low income reduce their energy bills.
16th March
Harbour's trainee clinical psychologist placement student has started peer supervision sessions with Harbour staff.
14th March
Read about the EVA Recovery Programme supporting survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence at Harbour.
29th September
Harbour have received funding from Sport England after a successful application to their Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Activity Fund.
12th August
On 1st August, Harbour Housing ran a sexual health awareness day with representatives from the Eddystone Trust, Brook Cornwall, and the Hepatitis C Trust all in attendance.
