Dysgu Bro’s garden project sows seeds of numeracy and wellbeing
Dysgu Bro Ceredigion, a Community Learning programme, has partnered with Gorwelion Day Hospital in Aberystwyth to run numeracy sessions alongside their established gardening group.
The gardening project, which runs from February until November each year, is provided for hospital clients who meet weekly to work in the garden cultivating the soil, planting flowers and vegetables, and harvesting the crops when ready. The garden is enjoyed by both staff and clients.
The positive effects that gardening has on mental health are well-documented, including such benefits as improved mood, reduced stress and anxiety, opportunities for social interaction and a connection with nature, as well as many therapeutic effects that help people deal with a variety of mental health issues, including PTSD, depression, and dementia.
In addition to the mental health benefits, gardening also offers many opportunities for improving numeracy skills. Multiply, a project that has received funding from the UK’s Shared Prosperity Fund to improve numeracy skills among adults has collaborated with the gardening group. Attendees of the group enjoy the weekly sessions very much, with one participant saying: “I have found coming to the garden group really beneficial for my mental health, and I enjoy being out in the open air, socialising with others and learning new skills.”
Dysgu Bro Multiply tutor, Liz Porter, has been attending the weekly group and is incorporating maths skills into the sessions to include measuring, drawing scale plans, and calculating the costs of seeds and plants for the project. Some of the attendees of the group are working to gain an accredited numeracy qualification from Agored Cymru, too. Liz said: “Participants have been able to refresh numeracy skills they may not have used for some time and have supported each other. I am delighted that so many will achieve their qualification. Great work, everyone!”
Councillor Wyn Thomas, Ceredigion’s Cabinet Member for Schools, Lifelong Learning and Skills, said: “It is truly heartwarming to see the remarkable collaboration between Dysgu Bro and Gorwelion Day Hospital. The integration of numeracy sessions into the therapeutic gardening project is a testament to our community’s innovative spirit and commitment to wellbeing. This initiative beautifully demonstrates how we can intertwine mental health support with educational growth, creating a nurturing environment for all involved. This is a shining example of how community-led projects can make a profound impact, and I wholeheartedly commend everyone involved for their dedication and hard work. Well done, indeed!”
Dysgu Bro’s Multiply team are keen to hear from any individuals or members of local groups, or organisations who would like to benefit from extra numeracy support. If you have a need for numeracy support, contact admin@dysgubro.org.uk for more information.