Sow the City has worked with Cornbrook Medical Practice in Central Manchester to develop their grounds into an engaging space for growing, wildlife and relaxation. Cornbrook is prescribing gardening and nature activities to patients to benefit their health and wellbeing and to help to tackle social isolation. The Cornbrook GP surgeries have around 13,000 patients on their books, many of whom are socially isolated and have very little access to outdoor space. The garden provides opportunity for local people to learn new skills, take part in physical exercise, get access to healthy and free food and meet new people.
Watch a short film on the project
You can find more information about the development of this project here
Sow the City would love to replicate in other GPs and public greenspaces. The project cost a few thousand pounds only to set up and is now maintained by Cornbrook patients and a green fingered receptionist at the surgery who provides monthly sessions for patients.
Sow the City operates a referral scheme to a network of over 60 community gardens and therapeutic horticulture projects across Greater Manchester. Sow the City accept self-referrals, referrals from health professionals, supported accommodation providers and other mental health support workers. To make a referral click here