Volunteer Spotlight: Allan Hughes
Get to know Allan and how his volunteering at the Hidden Gardens has introduced him to new hobbies like foraging and tai chi.
Photos by Virginie Chabrol
When I was made redundant five years ago, I was at a loss with what to do with myself. I went to an employment agency and they suggested to try voluntary gardening at The Hidden Gardens. I’ve been doing so ever since.
I moved to Govanhill from the East End about 14 years ago. Having green space was a priority and I now share a south-facing back garden. There is a lovely pear tree at the bottom of the garden that is a delight all year round. That’s where I got an interest in growing things. I used to come home from work, head outside and would forget the stress of the office.
I originally worked in medical illustration in the Western Infirmary. But advances in technology caused my job to become obsolete. As a mature student I gained a degree in digital art and design. Following that, I got a job as an administrative assistant. But it was very repetitive and monotonous work, which left my mind feeling ‘blank.’
When I became a volunteer at The Hidden Gardens, I felt extremely inspired. I gained new confidence and felt rejuvenated from the stresses I’d gathered over years. It sounds like a cliché, but gardening is really therapeutic and great for mental wellbeing. It’s also quite creative. I learned how to plan a garden and study foliage textures, plant placement, and colour combinations with flowers. I gained a nurturing spirit looking after plants.
Gardening creates a habitat for insects to thrive, which encourages birds and other creatures to visit and often nest in. Looking after a green space gives you a real sense of purpose, and the garden will reward you three fold. I believe plants communicate with us and can enhance an inner calm that contributes to our well-being.
What is unique about The Hidden Gardens is that it’s an activity-based organisation, which aims to create social and cultural interaction in the heart of a built up area. Govanhill has a rich diversity of cultures, and from the outset, the Hidden Gardens has embraced this by encouraging local people to meet and share interests. People from differing backgrounds can participate in activities like cooking, Pilates, bird watching, or art. They often host free events with music, craft workshops, story-telling, art exhibitions, and much more.
Another aspect of The Hidden Gardens’ commitment is social inclusion. I am a member of the men's group, which aims to encourage men who may feel socially isolated to meet up with new friends through taking part in workshops. I’ve often met guys who start off feeling a bit awkward, but, with a little patience and encouragement, through a shared interest, they often find confidence. I too experienced personal change within the group. I wasn’t in the best of places after losing my job, but the group helped me come to terms with -- and accept -- my situation
We do mindfulness, foraging, tai chi, cooking; a whole variety of activities. Even over lockdown, we met on Zoom and took part in writing, drawing and poetry. Music is a great favourite, and we even had on-line guitar lessons. We often meet up and have a good old sing-along.
Through my time at The Hidden Gardens, I have revived some old interests. I have taken up art and poetry. I also have an album on Soundcloud called ‘Allan and Sally play music from the Hidden Gardens.’
Everyone is welcome at The Hidden Gardens. Why not drop in. See what’s going on. Have a chat. All the activities are relaxing, and a fun way to spend an afternoon, and a great way of making new friends.