I have great news – I’m now the Thrive Ambassador for Gardening!
Thrive is an inspirational charity that uses gardening to bring about positive changes in the lives of people who are living with disabilities or ill health, or are isolated, disadvantaged or vulnerable. This is known as social and therapeutic horticulture (STH).
Improving health and wellbeing are at the heart of STH but there are so many benefits for people who take up gardening.
They develop new skills, learn about food growing and what is good and healthy to eat; they become fitter and boost their confidence because of their new-found knowledge.
I’m delighted to join Thrive and have long believed in their founding principle – that gardening is good for all of us! So often people feel daunted by gardening, but working with Thrive, I want to inspire people to get outside and have a go.
I went to their main headquarters near Reading to meet some of the people whose lives have been changed by the charity’s work. And I was inspired by all of the people I met. All of them have difficulties in their lives and the work staff and volunteers are doing is making such a difference.
I spent a bit of time with Nick and we got chatting about his charity bike rides. What came across to me is that he was a confident, happy young man. He also told me about his love of gardening and how he likes doing the ‘hard graft’ work – building up his muscles and keeping himself fit. That’s great to see.
How can I get involved?
Join our Garden Party Campaign! I’m asking proud gardeners up and down the country to host a fundraising garden party!
Simply invite friends, family and neighbours round to your garden and get everyone to buy plants, seeds, veg crops or cut flowers! No matter what size your garden, you can join in and host an event.
It’s a great way to get outside and enjoy the fruits of your gardening labour – plus you’ll pick up fantastic growing tips and new varieties!
All the money raised will go to helping Thrive make a huge difference to people’s lives, so please get involved now.
Visit Thrive’s website to learn more about their work
Read about how Thrive helps people get gardening with reduced mobility on the Daily Express.
David Domoney is a Chartered Horticulturalist, Broadcaster, and Author. David has worked with a number of the UK’s leading garden retailers as a plant buyer and strategic consultant. With more than 30 years experience, in horticulture, David is as passionate about plants now as he was when he bought his first plant at a village fete.
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