It’s Mental Health Awareness Week (13 to 19 May), and this year’s theme is “Movement: Moving more for our mental health”. We all know that getting moving is good for both our physical and mental health, which is why Walton Charity’s Community Allotment is open to all, regardless of their gardening experience.

Today we meet Mary, one of our community allotment volunteers. Here she describes how she feels about the community allotment. Remember, if you would like to join us then feel free to get in touch!

What made you join the Walton Community Allotment?

I retired from quite a busy career and found that I needed some routine in my life, and I wanted to do something worthwhile.

What is your role as a volunteer?

I’m happy to be there as part of the group and just to help in any way I can.

What’s the best part of joining the Community Allotment?

Joining the allotment has given me some structure in my life, it gets me out of the house for a few hours and it’s a very positive thing to do.  I love being outside gardening it’s gives me fulfilment. 

What have you learned since joining the allotment?

The answer is plain and simple. There are genuine and nice people from all walks of life who are happy to see you and there is absolutely no pressure; it’s very easy going.

What is a typical day at the allotment?

I arrive at 10 o’clock and speak to Karen the allotment manager who asks me what I would like to do, which normally consists of weeding, my favourite job. There are other tasks such as sowing seeds, planting out and digging up vegetables.  

At 11 o’clock we all sit down together and have a cup of tea/coffee and there are usually some great cakes to have with our mid-morning snack.j

After that, I continue with what I was doing and chat to people. The time just flies by, before I know it, Karen is telling me that it’s time to pack up and I always feel very pleased with my efforts. 

What piece of advice would you give someone wanting to join the Community Allotment?

Just give it a try, there is absolutely no stress whatsoever and if you decide to join our community, Karen the group leader is lovely. She doesn’t put any pressure on you, always asks how you’re feeling when you arrive in the morning and what would you like to do; it’s just a very positive way to spend a few hours.  Everyone is accepted for who they are, just be yourself!