A GROUND-BREAKING new allotment project to help with mental health has been launched in Dawlish.

A ‘social prescribing’ plot has been earmarked at Browns Bridge allotments, thought to be the first of its kind in the area.

It was officially opened by former Mayor Cllr Lin Goodman-Bradbury.

The project has been in the planning for more than six months and emerged from the Allotment Association working in collaboration with Dawlish Town council, the leaseholders of site and the Social Prescribing team at Barton Surgery in Dawlish.

This was spearheaded by two members of the Browns Brook Allotment Association committee; Sue and Steve Harris.

The collaboration came as Barton Surgery has many patients struggling with mental health and asking of help and support.

Alongside medication and counselling, the Social Prescribing plot will allow patients to be prescribed regular sessions working on the allotment in fresh air.

The aim is to provide access to the benefits of gardening and the outdoors.

The specific plot will be made available to patients and is considered a health and wellbeing ‘asset’ to the town.

The town council says currently, nothing of this kind is is available in the greater locality and all the participants in the project are excited to see what can be achieved.

The Adult Social Prescribing scheme gives GPs and practice staff the chance to refer patients presenting with social, practical and mild to moderate emotional needs to a Wellbeing Link Worker who is able to provide patients with non-clinical and practical support.

The scheme supports patients and aims to improve their health by connecting with activities, groups, and services to meet the practical, social and emotional needs that affect their health and wellbeing.