A CLYDEBANK charity is set to open an allotment to promote mental health awareness.
Improving Lives is a disability awareness organisation that launched in 2017 and is run by husband and wife Kevin and Dhyani Crawford.
The group provides a variety of mental and physical health services across West Dunbartonshire.
And they are currently working on a plot within Dalmuir Allotments.
Kevin opened up on the reasons for starting the project.
"We have been trying to get an allotment sorted for a couple of years to promote people exercising and learning new skills," he said.
"The service will be available for all different groups, including our men's and women's groups.
"We will also be encouraging younger people and families to get involved.
"Those who attend will be able to learn about the importance of growing food, how to get the most out of gardening and other outdoor methods."
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Kevin also revealed the important role that projects like this play in combatting the current mental health crisis as well as providing members of the charity with valuable skills.
"The guys have been learning how to level out the ground, mix concrete and put down slabs," he continued.
"These skills go beyond the allotment. It is a learning curve for everyone helping out and they all seem to be enjoying it.
"It is all based on helping those with mental health issues.
"Getting outside in the fresh air and exercising is vital for those who are struggling.
"All the guys are loving it and it really helps them overcome the challenges they are having.
"It is amazing to see the pride they have for the allotment after all the work they have put in so far.
The charity hopes they will be able to begin planting on the site at the beginning of next year.
He added: "The weather has held us back in recent times and the charity is also busy with other work but we are determined to be up and running as a fully functioning allotment next year. "
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