Allotment Group for people with mental health conditions send thanks to Hull businesses for support

The Haven Occupational Therapy Allotment Group at Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust recently received two generous donations. One from Jamie Cobbley, the Director of Bell and Higgins, a wood and DIY supplies shop in West Hull. The other from Andrew North, Director of CB North LTD, a timber supplies shop located on Hedon Road in Hull.

Bell and Higgins generously donated supplies such as cement and CB North LTD donated timber, which has allowed the team to construct a shelter within a wildlife garden that’s currently in progress. This shelter will be a place for group members to sit, relax and enjoy the local wildlife.   

The Occupational Therapy Allotment Group is for people with severe and enduring mental health conditions in the local area. It is a place where people can develop new skills, have the opportunity to create a meaningful routine, and can socialise and connect with others in a safe and supportive environment. It’s also a way for people to learn to manage their symptoms which may ordinarily prevent them from engaging in their communities.

The group has supported many people in taking up a fulfilling new hobby, securing employment, volunteering, and education. In addition, develop a sense of purpose, belonging and meaning in order to thrive in their communities.

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.

The group have taken great care and enjoyment from this project which, like many others, has been made possible by the group members themselves, staff and Trust volunteers.

Donations of this kind are appreciated at the best of times, but especially right now as times have been particularly challenging for everyone during the global pandemic. It just goes to show how community and supporting one another is one of the most important things we can do at this time.

Jamie Cobbley and Andrew North became aware of the allotment group through letters staff wrote to local businesses, asking for their support. The team would like to extend their heartfelt thanks for their generous decision to support this cause. Donations such as this allow the team to keep doing great work.

Verna Hotham, Occupational Therapist at Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust, said:

“I would like to send my sincere thanks to the staff at Bell and Higgins and CB North LTD, not only for their generous donations, but also for their clear show of support for our services. This has meant so much to our group members, who are often isolated from their communities. The members would like to express their appreciation of the generosity and how these acts of kindness make them feel valued and connected to their communities.”

The local allotment group continue to reach out to local businesses for support. If you think you might be able to help the group at this time or in the future, please do not hesitate to contact the team on Hnf-tr.haltempricecmht@nhs.net