Joanne Mathewson

The stars of the garden are our hens, which Equal Arts helped us nurture to become a part of our family.  It has been surprising how many people have looked after hens at some point in their lives and have a story to tell.  The hens provide endless stimulation, amusement and pleasure from watching their antics.

People who have had to leave their pets at home sometimes transfer the caring skills they had for them to the hens.  Such an attachment personified by taking them out for treats out after meal times, and letting them out of the coop to devour all the plants the gardeners have just planted, has provided an invaluable connection whilst, counteracting adverse feelings of insecurity, loss and separation (Miesen 1993).

The hens increase the use of our outdoor space. People want to go outdoors to watch the antics, which in turn improves wellbeing and promotes exercise while having an interest that can in turn promote communication with tales of having hens themselves.

The hens can help reduce anxiety and agitation by diverting someone’s attention and they offer a great community link as we have weekly visits from local primary schools. The school children have created art and crafts along with our service users to display around the centre.