Green Gyms

 Psychiatric hospital OT at allotments outside BelfastAll Green gyms involve maintaining the landscape - perhaps creating an allotment, planting a public space or a garden - or working on wilder areas like woods.  In doing so there are also big impacts on health, lifestyle choices and community cohesion.

The people involved varies dramatically from project to project - some bring together pensioners with young children to replant parts of a neighbourhood.  Others may involve people with mental health issues or those in secure units. 

What kind of organisations do this?

Partner organisations include hospitals, prisons, schools and 'folds' for old people.  The aim in all cases is to improve health, food habits, mood and connection to surroundings.  The project is also working on research to get a clearer picture of the cost benefits of this kind of activity.

You can read more about how it works here or explore the Conservation Volunteers Northern Ireland website.

Address: Conservation Volunteers Northern Ireland, Bedch House, 159 Ravenhill Road, Belfast BY6 0BP
Tel: 02890 645 169
Email: d.keys@btcv.org.uk