MindOut allotment

About the project

This is an communal allotment for MindOut service users - people from the LGB&T community who have experienced mental health issues. The allotment project got started three or four years ago. The plot, on an allotment site in Hove, originally belonged to a member of staff. When they could no longer manage it MindOut took on the plot due to an interest in gardening amongst service users. It provides a space where service users can do some practical gardening or simply relax, spend time outdoors and socialise.

A group goes to the allotment once a week and there are cookery workshops every other week. Sometimes the produce is used in cookery activities at the Allen Centre. The plot is also occasionally used for social events like picnics or BBQs.

The allotment, gardening and cookery sessions are run by a superstar volunteer, Andrew. There is a small core group that regularly helps out on the plot, and more service users are being encouraged to use the space.

Successes and challenges

MindOut feel that getting a regular group going has been a huge success. The plot is now very well managed and has become very productive, a real source of pride for participants. The only failures have been some crops which didn’t do so well - not so uncommon as most gardeners will tell you! Their biggest challenge has been the weather and keeping people’s interest going in the winter.

Funding the garden

MindOut received some funding to support the allotment as part of a Time to Change Project which looked at the benefits of physical exercise for mental health. It also received a Good Food Grant from the Food Partnership for 2011-12. In terms of additional support from the Food Partnership, the project manager says that "further funding would be great!"