YOUNG gardeners are taking part in a new scheme to encourage retired people to enjoy the great outdoors.
A mentoring scheme has been set up on the Newland Allotments to help older plot-holders get to grips with planting and digging.
The initiative has been launched thanks to a �2,695 grant from Hull Community and Volunteering Service (CVS).
The money has paid for 40 wheelbarrows, 40 rakes and 50 hand trowels and forks.
These will be divided into "starter packs" which will be given to those aged 60 and over.
Peter Fenwick, chairman of Newland Allotments and Tenants' Association, said: "The committee noticed a lot of older members, particularly those who were new to running an allotment, were struggling with all the tools and wheelbarrows.
"We started trawling the internet to see if we could find funding for a mentoring scheme.
"It informally happens anyway – we are like a big family here and a lot of people help each other out.
"But the funding has really helped, because now we have extra equipment that can be given to those who are just starting out."
Each plot-holder aged 60 or over will be assigned a mentor who will spend a few hours showing them some of the basics of plot management, such as how to prepare soil, put additives in, transfer plants from pots to the ground and which seeds should be planted at certain times of year.
The wheelbarrows have already arrived at the allotments, which are based at the end of Tavistock Street, behind Sidmouth Primary School.
The rest of the equipment is expected to arrive within the next few weeks.
Mr Fenwick said: "There are lots of benefits to mucking about in the great outdoors.
"It is great stress relief – we have a plot for the NHS mental health team, who bring patients here.
"It is appealing to all ages too – my two-year-old grandson Jack will be spending his first summer on the allotment this year.
"More people should get into it.
"It is hard work but you can take your time, meet new people and learn a lot."
The money was awarded to the allotment committee from Hull CVS's Active At 60 Community Agent grant.
The grant was set up to fund a variety of activities to help retired people or those nearing retirement to keep active and independent.
Have you got a story for the Avenues? Call Emma Wright on 01482 315154 or e-mail e.wright@mailnewsmedia. co.uk
 |  |
Housing market US politics Tuition fees Ryan Babel St Lucia Roberto Mancini
No comments:
Post a Comment