The value of an allotment group for refugees

Bishop, Ruth and Purcell, Elizabeth (2013) The value of an allotment group for refugees. The British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 76 (6). pp. 264-269. ISSN 0308-0226

Full text not available from this repository.

Abstract

Introduction: Refugees experience a number of difficulties when settling in the United Kingdom and may be faced with occupational injustice due to their restricted occupational engagement. This study explores the value of an allotment group for refugees of working age, aiming to explore the role of horticulture and the social environment on health, wellbeing and social inclusion.

Method: This was an exploratory study using qualitative methodology based on ethnographic principles. Data collection included observation of the group, semi-structured interviews with five participants, with four of these participants also taking part in photo-elicitation interviews. Data analysis involved using a 'framework' approach to produce three themes and associated sub-themes.

Findings: Analysis identified firstly gardening as a meaningful activity; secondly, the importance of the social environment and, lastly, the value of occupational engagement for refugees. Further theoretical analysis led to the conclusion that these themes linked to the dimensions of occupation: doing, being, belonging and becoming.

Conclusion: The findings identify how occupational engagement can have a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of refugees, specifically with the use of social and therapeutic horticulture.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	horticultural therapy, occupational justice, social networks
Subjects:	B900 Others in Subjects allied to Medicine C800 Psychology L300 Sociology
Department:	Faculties > Health and Life Sciences > Social Work, Education and Community Wellbeing
Depositing User:	Becky Skoyles
Date Deposited:	04 Oct 2013 14:02
Last Modified:	12 Oct 2019 14:37
URI:	http://nrl.northumbria.ac.uk/id/eprint/13707

Downloads