Homegrown happiness at Abbeyfield Winnersh
A promising new initiative is taking root in Abbeyfield Winnersh, with a new allotment being built in the home’s grounds. The aim is straightforward; to provide fresh, homegrown vegetables and herbs for the kitchen, promoting a more sustainable and cost-effective approach to meal preparation. The allotment project repurposes unused grounds, creating a useful and engaging area where residents can get involved.
Growing connections
The allotment project is a collaborative effort, developed with charity Younger People With Dementia, who provide support for people diagnosed with dementia under the age of 65. This partnership highlights the project’s commitment to community engagement and connection.
The benefits of the allotment
Beyond the benefit of fresh produce, the allotment brings a few key advantages including:
- Sustainable practices: The allotment project is using recycled materials and a compost heap to minimise waste and improve the soil.
- Sensory benefits: Gardening offers therapeutic benefits, particularly for residents with dementia, providing a connection with nature and a sense of calm.
- Community spirit: The act of gardening builds a sense of shared purpose and accomplishment, strengthening community bonds.
Encouraging resident participation
The staff at Winnersh are keen to see residents get involved in the allotment, as it offers a chance to contribute in a meaningful and practical way. There will be various ways for residents to get involved, from helping with planting and weeding to sharing gardening knowledge.
To ensure the project reflects the interests of the community, Winnersh are in the process of setting up a resident and family focus group. This group will play a key role in guiding the allotment’s development, helping to make decisions about what to grow, how to organise tasks, and how to make the most of the space.
From seed to plate
Looking ahead, the plan is to develop the allotment over time, increasing its yield so that all the vegetables are homegrown, which will also help with Winnersh's sustainability.
The allotment will provide a wide range of vegetables for the kitchen, with plans to grow familiar favourites such as cucumbers, lettuces, peas, cabbages, leeks, Brussels sprouts and potatoes. Alongside the vegetable beds, a herb wall is being built, which will provide a lovely supply of fresh herbs for cooking to add to meals.
The Winnersh allotment project is designed to support sustainable practices, encourage community participation, and contribute to the provision of fresh, healthy food, and the hope is that this initiative will have a positive impact on both residents and the wider community, offering opportunities for engagement and access to homegrown produce.
Alice Dunning, Care Home Manager at Winnersh said, "We are looking forward to seeing everything grow, sharing the space with residents and families to get involved and have our first meal together with our homegrown produce."
Discover Abbeyfield Winnersh
Abbeyfield Winnersh is a purpose-built dementia care offering welcoming, comfortable home. Featuring 60 en-suite rooms, sensory gardens, and various communal spaces like a cinema and beauty salon, the home has a familiar and calming atmosphere through thoughtful design. Their experienced team delivers personalised care plans, offering diverse activities and freshly cooked meals. Abbeyfield Winnersh also offers respite stays with 24/7 care and tailored services.
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