Cancer support charity encourages members to get out into nature with a new allotment

A cancer support charity has invested in a new way to enjoy the benefits of being outside in nature and growing healthy food.

The Living Tree – supporting local people affected by cancer since 2012 – has the use of an allotment in Bridport.

Since the coronavirus outbreak in March, The Living Tree has only been offering Zoom meetings to protect its members. But recently, expecting the lockdown in its current format to continue for some time, The Living Tree applied for and was allocated an allotment in Bridport.

This will enable Living Tree gardeners to enjoy socially distanced gardening and being out in the fresh air with like-minded people.

Jo Millar, trustee of the charity, explains the reasoning behind wanting to run an allotment.

"The decision was based on published research which demonstrates that participation in a community allotment has physical, psychological and social health benefits," she said. "This is particularly important during the current pandemic.

"Joining in with this new venture will enable our members to meet outside in The Living Tree's own green space with the added benefit of growing healthy food.

"During the coming winter months, just being outside in nature – with a chance to be physically active and chat to other Living Tree members – should help to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, help reduce stress and depression and help improve mental wellbeing.

"If it's good enough for Monty Don, the Royal Horticultural Society and the growing Social Prescribing movement, it's good enough for us."

The Living Tree will plant fruit, veg and flowers. The initial plan is to make a few high beds for those with back or general bending issues and there will be a shed to store essentials. At this stage, the charity is looking for a few people to help create a plan. Then, the group will need preparatory work to be done, but, at this moment in time, the site is still awaiting rotavation by Bridport Town Council.

If you are a current member of The Living Tree or are affected by cancer and ae interested in joining in with this latest Living Tree endeavour, email [email protected] and they will contact you when the allotment is ready to go.