We have just celebrated a one year anniversary of Garden Gathering sessions at Tayport Community Garden, a fruit of a collaboration between PLANT and Alzheimer Scotland.
Anne Haskell, Alzheimer Scotland Community Activities Organiser, who is involved in running the group, said:
We have had so much fun over the last year, meeting every Wednesday morning, and we enjoying garden activities in a friendly environment with refreshments and a chat.
People who attend said they love the relaxed atmosphere, enjoy the company and feel supported so that they can continue to enjoy gardening. Last year it was great to sow tomato and pepper seeds and then after a few weeks pot them up to grow into strong plants for harvesting. With such a bumper crop we even made chutney in the autumn. In winter we painted pots and planters, made bird feeders, and even had a go at willow weaving.
The group is open to anyone living with dementia, or memory problems, carers, family members and friends. A dementia diagnosis is life changing, but with the right help and support you can live well with dementia. Alzheimer Scotland’s high quality therapeutic community activities help people to live well with dementia and continue to be part of the local community for as long as possible.
Maggie Taylor, PLANT Committee member, who regulary volnteers to support of the group sessions, added:
The group has been a tremendous success – for the participants and for us here at the Garden. Gardening is an extremely relaxing job and everyone appears to love it whether you are taking part or just watching. I have wintnessed group members getting great delight in seeing the seeds which they have sown grow into lovely healthy plants. Last week we were sowing herbs, something that was enjoyed by all. Next month we will be planting the hanging baskets which PLANT sell.
PLANT are also extremely grateful to the group members as they are helping with a lot of tasks involved in day-to-day running of the Community Garden.
We all enjoy and a cup of tea and the chat going round the table…sometimes there is a bonus of a lovely home baked cake or muffins to enjoy with your tea!
Ali Butler, PLANT Volunteer Coordinator, also commented:
It’s been a delight working with the group over the last six months. I have enjoyed coming up with engaging and fun activities for the members, getting to know everyone and seeing them get so much out of the time spent with us.
Do you think you, or someone you know, could benefit from joining the group? Please get in touch with Anne by phoning 01592 204541 or emailing fifeservices@alzscot.org. If you would like to volunteer to help with the group’s support, please get in touch with Ali Butler on volunteer@tayportgarden.org.
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