Garden Shed

A place to potter about and growing plants as well as helping with physical, mental and social wellbeing

Benefit of gardening

Exposure to green space can have a positive effect on both physical and mental health. Studies have shown that gardening can reduce depression and anxiety and local green space has been linked to improved mental health and wellbeing. For older people, gardening can be a useful source of physical activity, while supporting independence and reducing loneliness. Living in areas with green spaces is associated with less income-related health inequality, weakening the effect of deprivation on health. Urban green spaces can contribute to social cohesion but the quality and maintenance of green spaces is important to make them appealing.

Location

Independent Living

(Sheltered Housing)

Project team

Independent Living/Sheltered Housing

buzz Neighbourhood Health Worker

Aim

The aim of this project is to create a peaceful space for the residents.

The purpose and background to this project is for health and wellbeing and exercise.

Evaluation

The project promoted resident engagement and promoted social connection, inclusion, age friendly work and taking action to help wellbeing.

This is on hold because of Covid-19

Strategic links to local/national policies

Benefit	Policy
Increased mental wellbeing	Manchester Health and Wellbeing Strategy
Supports older people	Taking Charge of our Health and Social Care in Greater Manchester (GMCA, 2015)
Reduces income-related health inequalities	Fair Society, Healthy Lives (Institute of Health Equity, 2010)
Improves local area	Our Manchester Strategy
Increased social cohesion	NHS Five Year Forward View (Department of Health, 2014)
Can be used for social prescribing	General Practice Forward View (NHS England, 2016)