News Cobtree encouraging volunteer gardeners for Mental Health Week

Cobtree Park, Maidstone is encouraging volunteers to get fit and healthy and to get gardening as part of the national Mental Health Week which starts today.

Research shows that gardening for people with mental health problems can improve communication with others, help with learning new practical skills/teamwork and planning. It also improves confidence and helps with concentration.

Hosted by the Mental Health Foundation, Mental Health Awareness Week 2019 takes place from Monday 13 to Sunday 19 May 2019; it is the UK’s national week to raise awareness of mental health and mental health problems and inspire action to promote the message of good mental health for all.

Cobtree Park has been holding volunteer gardening days to help establish meadow areas in the grounds to encourage pollinating insects which have recently seen a drastic decline in the UK.

Park Manager Lizzie Buckingham said:

"We welcome everyone to join our volunteer gardening group at Cobtree – you don’t have to have a knowledge of gardening – if you can just spare a few hours to get your hands dirty, have a pair of sensible shoes, bags of enthusiasm, want to get involved and learn then we would love to see you.”

The Park is owned by the Cobtree Charity Trust and has been leased to Maidstone for 999 years – Maidstone Borough Council currently manages it on behalf of the Trust, who administer the Will and funds, and contribute to the maintenance of the park.

Anyone who would like to take part can register their interest by calling 01622 715702 or by emailing:  info@cobtreemanorpark.co.uk

Mental Health Awareness Week has been run by the Mental Health Foundation since 2001: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/campaigns/mental-health-awareness-week/faqs

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