A NATIONAL charity is setting up a horticultural project to support the Ryedale community.

The Camphill Village Trust is introducing a community allotment project on Whitby Road, Pickering, to encourage horticulture as a therapeutic activity.

The project will initially provide a two-day service for people with learning disabilities, eventually developing the service to support people experiencing early on-set dementia, mental health needs, people requiring rehabilitation and older person’s provision.

“The aim of the service is to provide therapeutic day provisions through the themes of gardening and empowering inclusion for people with an assessed need in Ryedale,” said Andrew Arnell, regional business and enterprise development manager.

“We aim to deliver a bespoke service ranging from social interaction, making new friendships, and learning new skills, through to gaining educational learning and qualifications.

“We recognise the value of horticultural therapeutic activities for many other people who may be experiencing social isolation, require access to day activities or even carers who require their own time out and break from supporting others.

“This type of service is based on a social prescribing model with the aim of reducing the use of prescription medication and replacing this with activities and therapeutic support that acts to reduce stress, anxiety, promotes self-esteem, builds confidence and empowerment.”

The Camphill Village Trust is a not-for-profit organisation, providing more than 65 years of experience in supporting people with learning difficulties, autism and mental health challenges.

There are nine Camphill Village Trust, including Botton Village, near Danby, each with supported living provisions and therapeutic values.

The Community Allotment Garden, in Whitby Road, Pickering, is owned by the Pickering Town Council, who provide a horticultural area for voluntary groups.

“The council is now also working with Camphill Village Trust who will provide therapy and improve residents’ wellbeing through horticulture,” said Angela Dawson, from Pickering Town Council.

“It will be exciting to see the allotment garden develop and provide much needed help to local people in the future.”

For more information on The Camphill Village Trust Allotment Project, phone Robin Asquith on 01287 661208.