A Day at Boaz: A Student Nurse’s Reflection

“I recently visited a day service in Hampshire, an inclusive, farm-based day service supporting adults with learning disabilities through horticulture, animal care, cooking, and craftwork. I observed the daily routine: planting vegetables, helping to feed the chickens, egg packaging, chatting with service users, and observing how staff facilitated meaningful participation. I was particularly struck by the calm, natural environment and how embedded the individuals were in the life of the project.

“The experience evoked a strong emotional response. I felt inspired by the joy and pride shown by the people attending, many spoke passionately about what they had grown or made, and there was an obvious sense of belonging. Boaz offered purpose and responsibility. Members weren’t just attending, they were contributing. Their work was visible, valuable and celebrated.

“What stood out to me most was the emphasis on relationships, between peers, between members and staff, and between people and their environment. The setting allowed for natural conversation, laughter, and shared pride. I could see the therapeutic value in these relational moments, where people were seen and heard as whole individuals.

“This visit has changed the way I view day services and their potential impact on mental health, self-worth, and social inclusion. It reminded me that meaningful occupation isn’t just a nice extra, it’s a core part of well-being. I want to carry this into my future practice as a learning disability nurse by advocating for day services and community opportunities that focus on building relationships, identity, and contribution, not just activity. I will ask myself, is this person being occupied or empowered?”