House of Lords to be advised on mental health in horticulture

Annabella Padwick, the founder of Life at No.27, a UK based mental health organisation and horticultural therapy provider, will address the House of Lords on horticultures’ current and future mental welfare landscape.

The Horticultural Sector committee at present is conducting an inquiry and subsequent report into the future of horticulture and mental health, with reference to how the two are affiliated.

Acknowledging the potentially isolating nature of horticultural work and the bearing this can have on a professionals’ mental health. While also recognising the therapeutic opportunities that gardening can offer everyone.

Padwick will put forward oral evidence and personal recommendations guided by evidential support from her work in the sector, to be a part of the report.

The Life at No.27 Founder says: “Whilst I’m one of the biggest advocates of growing your own produce and connecting with nature for our wellbeing, I want to assure my clients and readers, that I will go on to show you in the live televised discussion, that horticulture can benefit many people’s mental health, but only if they have the right professional support alongside them too, as well as a safe environment to grow in.

“I hope that as a panel we will represent our communities clearly and honestly, we will push for change in future legislations and ensure that what we say gives an accurate picture of the connections between horticulture and mental health.”

Padwick’s insights and experiences will provide guidance to policymakers and industry professionals, impacting future legislations.

Advising alongside Padwick will be a Professor of Change in Agriculture from Cranfield University and the Head of Natural Environment at the National Academy of Social Prescribing.

The event will be available via Parliament TV’s live stream, on Thursday 22 June at 11:30am.