The Meaning of Participation in an Allotment Project for Fathers of Preschool Children

Abstract

Introduction: Allotments are a popular setting for a range of therapeutic horticultural groups and are regarded as an effective way of encouraging social inclusion, although the mechanisms for this are poorly understood. Method: This study employed a qualitative methodology to explore the subjective meaning of an allotment group to its participants: the fathers of young children, living in a socially deprived area of the United Kingdom. Data were collected via a focus group with six participants. Findings: Allotment gardening was perceived as a masculine parenting activity and enabled fathers to develop stronger relationships with their children. They formed social bonds with other fathers and overcame the stigma and stereotypes of their background. Discussion: Allotment groups have the potential for improving social wellbeing through shared occupation and shared meaning. They are a useful resource for occupational therapists working with socially excluded or stigmatised clients. The importance of co-occupation in the attribution of meaning to occupations was also identified.