Flourish is a community gardening project based at the Southwood Road Allotments in Rusthall, Tunbridge Wells. We support adults who are struggling with their mental health, feeling lonely, or socially isolated. Our hands-on project focuses on gardening and growing fruit and vegetables, offering a rewarding and beneficial experience for mental wellbeing.
What we offer:
- Social and Therapeutic Horticulture: Activities include planning, planting, tending, and harvesting produce, with guidance from our experienced team and volunteers.
- Outdoor crafts: Enjoy seasonal activities such as willow weaving, wreath making, wood-working, and horticultural-based trips.
- Healthy eating: When produce is ready, we cook delicious, healthy meals together during sessions, encouraging a balanced diet and new attitudes towards food. Surplus produce is donated to the local food larder in Rusthall.
- Person-centred support: We take a holistic approach, setting individual goals and monitoring progress to adapt our support and demonstrate the project's impact.
- Community and teamwork: Flourish is a welcoming space to connect with others, build confidence, and reduce isolation. Many participants value simply being outdoors in a beautiful natural environment.
- Training opportunities: All staff and volunteers receive appropriate training, and participants can learn new skills.
Attendance is by appointment only and is currently free of charge. We welcome referrals from mental health professionals and self-referrals from anyone who feels they may benefit. The process begins with a meeting and trial session, followed by blocks of attendance agreed upon by both parties.
Interested in volunteering? If you live in the Tunbridge Wells area, enjoy gardening, and are a patient and sympathetic individual, we would love to hear from you. Volunteers receive training and support from our dedicated team.
Contact us for more information or to refer someone: Our Project Manager, Keith, and Programme Lead, Kate, are happy to answer any questions.
Adults only (18+)
Those living in Tunbridge Wells and surrounding areas with low to moderate mental health issues
Self-refer / Referral by professional