The 'Severn Project' is a therapeutic program that employs individuals from socially-excluded demographics, including those who have struggled with substance abuse and the formerly incarcerated. While many people find gardening to be a relaxing way to spend an afternoon, the activity can be even more meaningful for those who have struggled to find their place in society. This program uses gardening to help those who have a checkered past.
The Severn Project was set up by Steve Glover, who managed to recover from his own addition problems. Glover felt that gardening could be a meaningful way to help those who have struggled with similar issues. The therapeutic program helps workers heal while also providing food for restaurants in the south west of England. As Glover explains, "we’re not just growing food here. We’re also growing people’s abilities and confidence."
The program demonstrates how gardening can be a therapeutic activity for former inmates and those who have struggled with substance abuse.
Ex-Offender Vegetable Gardens
This Therapeutic Program Helps the Formerly Incarcerated
Trend Themes
1. Therapeutic Gardening - Creating therapeutic gardening programs for individuals who have struggled with addiction and incarceration can provide healing and growth opportunities.
2. Socially Inclusive Employment - Implementing socially inclusive employment programs, such as the Severn Project, can help individuals from socially-excluded demographics find purpose and regain confidence.
3. Food Sustainability Initiatives - Exploring food sustainability initiatives that utilize therapeutic gardening programs can address the dual needs of providing fresh produce while helping individuals with checkered pasts reintegrate into society.
Industry Implications
1. Mental Health & Addiction Treatment - The mental health and addiction treatment industry can adopt therapeutic gardening as a complementary therapy to aid in healing and recovery for individuals with a history of substance abuse and incarceration.
2. Social Services & Rehabilitation - Incorporating social services and rehabilitation programs with therapeutic gardening can offer effective pathways for social integration and employment opportunities for the formerly incarcerated and socially-excluded demographics.
3. Hospitality & Food Service - The hospitality and food service industry can collaborate with therapeutic gardening programs like the Severn Project to source fresh, locally-grown produce while supporting initiatives that provide employment opportunities to individuals in need.