Garden 'improves lives' of those with learning difficulties
15:05:20 25th May 2010
An acre of land with garden sheds, greenhouses and an allotment has improved the lives of those with learning disabilities in South Shields, reports the Shields Gazette.
An abandoned plot was transformed into a community garden, complete with garden sheds, by councillor Ernest Gibson.
South Shields residents with learning difficulties have been able to learn gardening skills, and a lot of their families have seen an improvement in them, claims councillor Gibson.
He told the news provider: "Instead of them being stuck in community centres or at home, they are getting out and doing things like this.
"They are now gardening at home rather then just sat watching TV. It also changes the parents' and carers' lives, as their charges are now more motivated."
About 50 people planted crops and built things such as garden sheds on the land and were helped by a team of volunteers and council employees.
It is kept going by grants from the council and other organisations.
The health benefits of gardening are apparent. It can combat stress as gardening produces endorphins which enhance mood and self-esteem.
Find out more information about garden sheds.
Written by Robin Antill+
Started making garden sheds in 1979. so 31 years experience. Online since 1996. 1st in UK.
