Following our focus on gardening last week (Mental Health Awareness Week) and the joy it has brought to so many of #TeamAMH during lockdown we wanted to check back with our keen gardeners in AMH New Horizons Antrim. The Antrim service decided to offer a “Seeds at Home” class to those who are still isolating or just not able to return to the service yet, via the phenomenon that is Zoom! It has been a great success so far! The classes have managed to bring a bit of gardening and nature into the homes of staff and clients.
In advance of the classes starting, AMH staff delivered 6 packs of pots, soil and seeds to clients’ houses!
This week marked the second ‘seeds at home’ class and the horticulturists had a chance to plant some more seeds such as chilli peppers and see what had germinated and sprouted since last week. We are delighted to report that the sunflowers and spinach are already starting to sprout for some and the rest of the group are patiently waiting for their little seedlings to appear!
When asked – “What’s your favourite thing about growing seeds at home?”
Geoff replied “I like the company, the shared interest that we have and the shared appreciation for growing things, because the enthusiasm’s infectious!”
Karolyn and her daughter have had great success with their spinach seeds, which have sprouted well since last week.
While Paul is beating the rest of the gang with a sunflower that has shot up already! We think he must have the sunniest south facing window-ledge – the perfect place for sunflowers!
We look forward to following the progress of this innovative and engaging class over the next few weeks!
Clients at AMH New Horizons Antrim take part in the ESF ‘Working It Out’ project which is part-funded by the Northern Ireland European Social Fund Programme 2014-2020, Department of Economy and Northern Health & Social Care Trust.
