Tenants and clients across London and Essex have been busy in the gardens over the Summer, taking advantage of various support to cultivate their green spaces. Here are some examples of how staff and clients have been working together to get more from their gardens.

Funding yields at Ferguson Close

Ferguson Close resident, John, took advantage of our service improvement fund last year to pursue his life-long interest in producing home-grown veg. With the support of staff at the scheme, which supports adults with learning disabilities, John's aim was to create an enjoyable, constructive and supportive environment in the garden, complete with a tool shed and scarecrow, for himself and other residents to enjoy.

Jo Bird, Service Manager S & W Essex, said: "The picture says it all! The results have been enjoyed by all and has given John a real sense of achievement."

Give and Gain Day encourages businesses to volunteer

Since we started asking residents in the East Region if they needed help in their gardens we’ve had a massive response, with over 60 people on the waiting list.

We have 20 volunteers gardeners and they are doing a fantastic job, giving over 400 volunteer hours last year.

Business in the Community organised ‘Give and Gain Day’ on 9th of July encouraging businesses to donate volunteer hours and find help for the gardens on our waiting list. We had a great response with three companies, State Street, Grant Thornton and F&C, agreeing to tidy and develop 4 of our gardens.

Doris Bryk of Durley Road said, "I can’t believe it, I’m dreaming, I always used to have a garden but it was so messy now I can start to plan again." Regional Housing Director, Steve Thomas, was very impressed, acknowledging that help with gardens really makes a difference to tenant satisfaction.

Harrods boss pays for garden makeover

Our Coach House scheme is to get a garden makeover thanks to the parents of resident Nicky Pennell who wrote to Harrods owner Mohammed Al Fayed asking for money towards the project.

Mr Al Fayed donated £2,000 which will be used to create an allotment and to make the garden better suited to the people who live there. They have already started planting vegetables.

Shared pleasureThe Coach House is for people with neurological disorders or severe physical disabilities. Resident Hayley Glover told us the garden is an important and enjoyable activity that all residents can enjoy together and also eat what they grow.

The residents also want the garden to stimulate senses such as touch, sound and scent so we are looking at ways to do this, maybe using herbs and wind chimes.