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Green Landscapes of Care: The Potential of Gardens to Support the Well-Being of Asylum Seekers in Ireland

Author

Listed:
  • Felicity Daly

    (Trinity Centre for Global Health, Trinity College Dubin, Dublin 2, Ireland
    School of Public Health, University College Cork, T12 XF62 Cork, Ireland)

  • Sally Ann Lenehan

    (Independent Researcher, Leap, Co Cork, Ireland)

  • Jacqui O’Riordan

    (School of Applied Social Studies, University College Cork, T12 HY8E Cork, Ireland)

Abstract

Engaging vulnerable migrants in nature-based activities demonstrates that access to green space can provide a safe place to process trauma, allowing vulnerable forced migrants to enhance their sense of subjective well-being, to breathe and to be. Framed by the feminist ethics of care concept of ‘universal care’, this qualitative study utilised semi-structured interviews, focus group discussion and participant observation to explore asylum seekers’ opportunities for giving and receiving care for people and planet in green spaces outside of institutional international protection accommodation, particularly among those who have access to community gardens. This research contributes to understanding the multigenerational benefits of green space and the potential of forms of horticultural therapy to support the health and well-being of vulnerable forced migrants of all ages. This research has implications for how care for international protection applicants could be enhanced in Ireland and elsewhere through expanding access to safe and inclusive green spaces. It provides a model of a landscape of care support mitigation of pre- and post-migration trauma and mental stress.

Suggested Citation

  • Felicity Daly & Sally Ann Lenehan & Jacqui O’Riordan, 2025. "Green Landscapes of Care: The Potential of Gardens to Support the Well-Being of Asylum Seekers in Ireland," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 22(9), pages 1-14, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:22:y:2025:i:9:p:1410-:d:1746559
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Liisa Andersen & Sus Sola Corazon & Ulrika Karlsson Stigsdotter, 2021. "Nature Exposure and Its Effects on Immune System Functioning: A Systematic Review," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(4), pages 1-48, February.
    2. Anna Gregis & Chiara Ghisalberti & Savino Sciascia & Francesco Sottile & Cristiana Peano, 2021. "Community Garden Initiatives Addressing Health and Well-Being Outcomes: A Systematic Review of Infodemiology Aspects, Outcomes, and Target Populations," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(4), pages 1-12, February.
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