Nature-Based Therapy
People, Place and Purpose
DGS combines People, Place and Purpose brought together by a trained Practitioner (PPP + P). A manual outlines the programme and evaluation framework. For clients, the manual explains the sessions as well as the opportunities for progression. For project leaders it explains the integrity of the course, as well as a fidelity of delivery and evaluation that is understood by funders and sponsors.
The programme runs for 10 weeks for groups of 8 supported by 2 staff plus an experienced veteran who supports progression. Each of the 10 sessions includes therapeutic outcomes whether Physical, Social, Emotional or Cognitive. There is one 3 hour session a week, usually 11 am-2 pm on a weekday.
‘Even if gardening is not your thing. It gives you time to work out what your thing is’
— Veteran 201
In 2019, the House of Commons Defence Select Committee identified ‘a stark gap in the provision of mental health support for armed forces personnel and their families’ (Mental Health and the Armed Forces. Part Two: The Provision of Care. HC paper 813, Session 2017-19). At the same time, the MOD identified a need for ‘a bespoke, holistic, soft landing for those that need it’ (Defence Holistic Transition Policy; MOD 2019).
DGS aims to help fill the gap in mental health support by increasing access to nature-based therapy; creating the time and space for bespoke, holistic support and a ‘soft landing’.
People
Each garden is managed by a trained practitioner who is highly motivated to deliver therapeutic services for special people. All staff share a common desire to support armed forces personnel.
All families, including bereaved family members and children with learning difficulties, are an important part of the community at each project.
Place
The place is created by the professionally trained Practitioner, who customises delivery to suit the garden and the seasons, as well as to meet the needs of the individuals and the group.
The gardens are all special in a different way. Whether it is a formal walled garden or a more modest community allotment.
Purpose
The purpose is to provide meaningful occupation either working individually or in small groups. Activities include practical horticultural skills, combined with an introduction to self-care tools such as journaling, mindfulness and reflection. The sessions work towards defined therapeutic outcomes; Physical, Emotional, Cognitive or Social.
Progression Pathways
A range of supported options to explore as individuals reach week seven of the programme
For further information please contact the DGS Project Support
Co-ordinator Rachel Willis
Defender to Entrepreneur
A bespoke blended programme that combines self study with on line tutorial support.
Veterans who have attended a DGS programme and are considering self employment can enrol on DtE and be guided through a 4 week- (one session a week) bespoke support programme
Delivered to small cohorts of 4 veterans and facilitated by David Morgan CF- Founder and Managing Director of Entrepreneurs Unlocked.
For further information or to register please contact the DGS Project Support Co-ordinator Rachel Willis