Stratford In Bloom digs deep to help others
A special gardening project has been launched by Stratford in Bloom to help some of the most vulnerable in the town.
The idea, which forms part of the Stratford Link Project, is to transform an allotment in Stratford into self-contained manageable ‘grow-your-own’ plots.
It is hoped this will create a facility where people can go independently in their own time and take part in a positive activities.
The Stratford Link Project is designed to provide opportunities to the most vulnerable members of the community, such as people with physical or mental health problems, issues with substance misuse or the socially isolated.
Working with Bromford Housing Association, the group has installed a greenhouse, shed and made available basic tools at the allotment.
These new facilities have been provided thanks to Stratford District Council, Warwickshire Police & Crime Commissioner and the Warwickshire Councillors’ Grant Scheme, while Blenheim Nursery provided the manpower to develop the site.
Steve Brookes, Chairman of Stratford in Bloom and local gardening broadcaster, said: “Gardening is a wonderful therapy for everyone, and particularly for those suffering from any type of mental health or emotional problems. Working with nature and growing your own crops gives everyone a fantastic sense of achievement.”
Kim Bairstow, Senior Support Worker at Bromford, added: “We are very much looking forward to working with Stratford in Bloom going forward to enhance and improve the facilities at the plot, which in turn will have a considerable benefit on attendees’ mental and physical wellbeing. This will increase confidence, resilience and self-esteem leading to more opportunities in other areas of their lives.”
If you would like more information about Stratford-upon-Avon in Bloom or find out ways you can help, contact Steve Brookes, on 01789 267124, or Stratford in Bloom secretary, Miriam Dow on 01789 417852.