Thanks to the generous 
support of the National Lottery Community Fund REAP can continue its therapeutic gardening work with The Oaks Therapeutic Garden Project at The Oaks Palliative Care Unit in Elgin.
What is therapeutic gardening?
Therapeutic gardening is the use of garden space to improve and build resilience in mental health; to increase physical activity; develop social skills and encourage a healthier diet. Our aim is to help people improve their mental, physical and emotional wellbeing through gardening and socialising in a beautiful, peaceful environment. You can find out more about the benefits of therapeutic gardening here: http://www.thrive.org.uk/what-is-social-and-therapeutic-horticulture.aspx
Session days and times
Participants meet on a weekly basis on Tuesday afternoons 2-5 pm and Thursday mornings 10-1pm at The Oaks site in Elgin where they can take part in various gardening activities such as sowing seeds, growing veg, fruit trees care, learning about composting and harvesting vegetables to take home. There is also a chance to socialise during our tea break. In the winter, we will hold indoor sessions where participants can learn to cook delicious soups from our garden or try their hands at nature-based craft activities.
Who can participate?
This project is suitable for individuals with low to moderate mental health conditions, mild physical disabilities or individuals experiencing isolation.
How to join?
For individuals:
We do not accept self-referrals at the moment. If you wish to join the programme, please get in touch with your GP or your social or health worker and ask them to email our Therapeutic Worker at: info@reapscotland.org.uk and we will be in touch.
For referring agencies:
We have designed an info pack for referrers where you can find answers to your questions and more information about the project: The Oaks Therapeutic Garden Project Info Pack for Referrers (click to download)
If you have a client that might benefit from this project, please email our Therapeutic Worker at: info@reapscotland.org.uk and they will be in touch.
More info
For all project enquiries, you can contact our Therapeutic Worker at: info@reapscotland.org.uk or call on 07840908697. Please note that they only work part-time.
