A key process that underpins STH is time spent in a positive environment. The skilled Practitioner will manage the amount and levels of social interaction between participants in the group and with themselves.
Research studies include:
Coming to Thrive has helped Leslie in the aftermath of intensive cancer treatment for a tumour affecting his head. After going through weeks of radiotherapy, Leslie says Thrive’s programmes have boosted him mentally, physically and emotionally. He was interested in learning about gardening and joined the Sow & Grow programme for the over-50s - a programme that brings together small groups of socially isolated older people by providing a 12-week tabletop gardening course in the Thrive Gardens. The programme introduced him to many gardening activities:
It was very interesting. I met new people, most of them had their own garden and the ladies, in particular, knew the names of the plants and I learnt from them too.
Indeed, since Leslie’s Sow & Grow group came to an end, he has met up with its other members outside of Thrive to stay in touch.