Poole Community Clinic's brain injury allotment is growing success

Poole Community Health Clinic is reaping the rewards of an allotment project which is helping to rehabilitate people suffering with brain injuries.

A special open day has been held to mark the first anniversary of the scheme, where the borough’s Mayor joined staff and patients past and present to see the good work being done at the site in Whitecliff.

The event was also an ideal opportunity to raise awareness of brain injuries and the support provided by Dorset HealthCare’s Community Brain Injury Service.

Rehabilitation Assistant Vicki Robbins, said: “The allotment itself consists of a shed, compost bins and four flower beds growing a wide range of vegetables. We are hoping to expand the plot in the coming months.

“Everyone has worked tremendously hard on the allotment, and our patients get so much out of it. They enjoy working in the outdoor environment and it is a great opportunity for them to socialise.”

The allotment space is used in a one-to-one or group setting in order to promote stamina and physical rehabilitation such as mobility and balance.

It also helps to improve a patient’s cognitive skills, teaching them to listen to instructions, retain information and perfect concentration. In addition, attendance also promotes orientation, providing individuals with a sense of purpose, structure and routine in their lives.

Poole Mayor Cllr Xena Dion, who also works as a health visitor for Dorset HealthCare, said: “These allotments provide an invaluable space to support the rehabilitation programme and team of people working within it. Being outdoors and working on something that produces results is both meaningful and therapeutic beyond measure.”