Research & Evidence
Aims
The principal aim of the group is to conduct research to build an evidence base that demonstrates the benefits of social and therapeutic horticulture initiatives in Scotland.
Di Blackmore PhD postgraduate student at the University of Stirling gives an update on her research into the health effects of therapeutic gardening.
The main application of the research will be to raise awareness and convince service managers, funders and policy makers in organisations such as national government, local authorities, health and environmental agencies, of the value delivered by such projects.
Charlie McMillan, Director of Operations for SAMH (Scottish Association for Mental Health), addresses the Trellis 6th Annual Conference and talks about the health benefits of therapeutic horticulture.
Objectives
In support of these aims, the group intends to:
- Review the available sources of research and evidence in the social and therapeutic horticulture field, classifying the methods, tools and results formulations for use by the Trellis network of projects (e.g. suitability; skills, qualifications and/or training necessary; etc.)
- Sponsor research studies using qualified practitioners and volunteer projects to further develop the Scottish evidence base.
- Publish research study results in professional journals and other related media of good standing worldwide.
- Build a reference base of good practice, consistent standards and information sources to share across the Trellis network (e.g. via the website and other publications.)
- Monitor the policy development of national government, local authorities, health and environmental agencies to ensure continued alignment of the evidence base.
- Work closely with similar groups to exchange findings worldwide.
Contacts
References
Aims and Objectives June 2008 Agenda June 2008 Minutes June 2008 Briefing Paper (AJ) June 2008 Briefing Paper (FT)
