Growing Out London is a free weekly gardening programme for adults experiencing mental health needs, such as anxiety or depression. Sessions take place in the gardens of Battersea Park and offer a sociable outdoor activity that combines gentle exercise with gardening learning to support wellbeing. The programme runs in two stages over one year: Pathways in the first six months, followed by a City & Guilds Level 1 in Practical Horticulture in the second six months. No gardening experience is required; Thrive’s Horticulture Practitioner and a team of volunteers support participants in a small group (up to eight people) to keep the sessions friendly and supportive. Benefits may include improved physical health, reduced anxiety and low mood, increased confidence, more social contact, and the chance to gain a recognised horticulture qualification. Sessions run weekly from 10:00 to 15:00 on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, with a women-only group on Wednesdays. Access is via self-referral; you can contact Thrive by phone or via the online form on this page. There is no charge for attendance.
Service statistics
80%
of referrals accepted
Categories:
Mental health support
Mental health
Service access criteria:
Self-referral via Thrive's contact form or phone; contact page link on the Growing Out London page.
mental health support, thrive, regional
Who can refer:
Professional referrals only