About this class

Roots and Boots is now full. Please fill out the application form if you want to be added to the waiting list. Roots and Boots is a 7-week supported group for adults in recovery – to get out of the city and into nature to improve mental health, learn new skills, improve social networks and enjoy the change of scenery that Stanmer Park has to offer.

Activities are seasonal and varied and may include: gardening, tending to fruit and veg, watering, weeding, planting, site maintenance, cutting back overgrowth, laying paths, building fences, tending to the fire and making tea. We also offer an optional light-touch element of nature-connection and mindfulness. For example, tuning in and noticing birdsong, making wild art, learning fire skills, experiencing a guided meditation etc.

When:  27th July – 7th September, 9.30am – 1.30pm, including travel time from central Brighton to Stanmer Park (free transport is provided). Applicants must be available for the full seven weeks.

Who is it for? People in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. This would suit applicants who have been through detox and are now looking for meaningful activity – to fill their time as well as learning new skills, building confidence and self-esteem and enjoying the therapeutic benefits of time spent in nature. This is a closed group of 8-12 adults, ages 18+. No previous gardening experience necessary.

You can’t get rid of your addiction by sitting in a room or a circle of chairs. You need to get out and create moments. I can look back and see that going to the plot was a massive part of my treatment. Not separate from it, even though I thought I was just getting outside for a few hours, it WAS the treatment too. It still comes up in conversation with some of the lads who I’ve moved on with.

Accessibility:

Although there is usually a range of activities on offer, please note that the majority of our activities are physical and will be accessible to those with moderate mobility. However, there is some uneven ground so this group will unfortunately not be accessible to wheelchair users or those who need assistance with walking. Please talk to us if you are unsure about taking part due to mobility issues.

Venue and facilities: Stanmer Wellbeing Gardens, Stanmer Park. There is a shelter from the elements, compost toilet facilities and light refreshments provided.

Free transport will be provided from central Brighton.

Participants will need to wear sturdy shoes and clothing appropriate for the weather. We may be able to offer some assistance with sourcing outdoor clothing for those who need this – please note this in your application form.

Since doing Roots and Boots, I feel calmer, less aggressive. It also set me up to take those feelings back into the rest of the day and have a good rest of the day. I really used the session to relax and enjoy myself. Most days it was a breath of fresh air.  I really enjoyed the physical work because my previous work was physical so it reconnected me to that bit of my life.

About your leaders: Our session leaders from the Food Partnership are experienced in ecotherapy and have been delivering similar groups in Brighton & Hove for many years. We are also founding members of the Sussex Green Wellbeing Alliance and linked with a wider network of therapeutic outdoor experiences and gardening groups, including many options to follow-on after this group finishes. 

There is lots of evidence for the benefits of being outside in nature and how it can improve mental & physical health and confidence. Read our blog from the pilot of this Roots & Boots group for more on the impact for participants. 

This group is funded by Brighton & Hove City Council’s Third Sector Investment Programme.

Roots and Boots is now full. Any applications will be now added to a waiting list