1. An Evaluation of a Role Emerging Placement in a Mental Health Horticultural Community
Growing Well, Low Sizergh Farm,
Low Sizergh, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 8AE   
     
Introduction
This study explores the effects of a student Occupational Therapy role-emerging practice placement programme within a mental health horticultural community.
It explores whether specific aspects of the pilot programme were effective in promoting one individual’s recovery (Roy – pseudonym) and occupational performance,
and investigates the contribution of a role-emerging placement to the mental health facility (reported by Sarah – staff member pseudonym).
Method
A qualitative methodology using individual semi-structured, in-depth interviews was utilised via purposive sampling, providing phenomenological perspectives.
Data was collected via audio recorder and transcribed verbatim, increasing validity. Post-transcription, member checking took place to increase research rigour and reduce researcher bias (Clarke & Braun, 2013).
Once the data were collated they were subjected to thematic analysis, using a matrix framework. This involved a three-tier process - themes devised and tables collated were analysed twice to ensure solid themes were identified.
The development of Roy’s understanding of occupation has enabled him to self-manage his daily activities.
Findings
How an occupational perspective and engagement in occupation enhanced existing horticultural therapy
Sarah stated “I think it brought a new perspective on how we work … I think it encouraged us to think about what we do and why we do it”.
The importance of individuals understanding occupation
Roy discussed how occupational choices influence his alcohol consumption and how alcohol influences his occupational choices … “computer games are often linked to alcohol consumption and drinking alcohol keeps me indoors being idle”
Understanding the importance of meaningful occupation …
Subthemes: understanding occupations; engagement in occupation; identifying barriers to participation in occupation.
Enhancement of current practice …
Subthemes: reciprocal learning and benefits of a multi-disciplinary team.
Sarah reported … “(The experience) broadened the range of people that were able to make use of our services”.
The use of a person-centred approach
Person-centred care planning …
Subthemes: Therapeutic use of self; goal setting; self-management.
Sarah commented on the fact “many of the people who got involved in the soup making and pickling sessions, are people who have never cooked before”.
Roy reported how goal setting not only helped him on-site but also away from the horticultural setting, working on sleep patterns, time management and meaningful occupations such as dog walking with a view and bread making.
Roy reported …“I was supported in developing ideas that worked for me as opposed to following plans produced by others for my use”
Empowering and enabling individuals
Conclusions and Implications
This small research sample contributes to occupational therapy practice theory by emphasising the importance of an individual’s understanding of themselves as an occupational being, and the importance of therapists tailoring treatment to the individual. Further research into the importance of individuals’ understanding of themselves as occupational beings would be of value to occupational science evidence.
With the development and encouragement of ‘Role Emerging Practice Placement’, entrepreneurship and supervision support led by the University, the OT students were able to successfully demonstrate the positive impact of Occupational Therapy practice. It was demonstrated that adoption of an occupational perspective could complement and contribute to this establishment and aid the recovery journey of its members.
There is now an Occupational Therapist employed as part of the community’s multi-disciplinary team, established as a direct consequence of the ‘Role Emerging Practice Placement’.
References:
Clarke, V. and Braun, V. (2013) Successful Qualitative Research: A Practical Guide for Beginners. London: Sage.
All photographs are the copyright of Growing Well.
Author details: Rebecca Carr, Growing Well, UK
Fiona Cole, University of Cumbria, UK