Growers share Chelsea award (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Bradford homeless people see fruits of their labours

8:30am Friday 28th May 2010 in News By Emma Clayton

Plants grown by homeless people in Bradford have formed part of an award-winning display at the Chelsea Flower Show.

Fruit and vegetables grown at the Down to Earth allotment in West Bowling form part of the 600-square metre Places of Change plot which has won a silver award at the Royal Horticultural Society’s show.

Volunteer gardeners from Down To Earth were visiting the show today to see the garden.

Also on display are three mosaics which the Down to Earth volunteers have created with Artworks. Each will go on permanent display at allotments in the city, and a hostel. Down to Earth is a collaboration between the Eden Project, Homeless Link and the Homes and Communities Agency of the Department for Communities and Local Government which has worked with homeless organisations nationally. Down To Earth in Bradford offers a therapeutic environment for people who are homeless or in sub-standard accommodation. It is a partnership between Key House – a service for homeless people – and the Bradford and Airedale NHS-funded Proactive Approach To Health project.

Horticultural expertise is provided by Bradford Community Environmental Project.

The partnership began 18 months ago, and more than 120 people have helped to transform the overgrown space into fertile ground.

Ian Fallon, support and allotment worker at Keyhouse, said: “Allotments offer a unique environment, combining relaxation with meaningful work. Clients are supported to improve their physical and mental health by learning practical skills and working as part of a team.

“It is a real achievement to be part of the Chelsea Flower Show; the Places of Change garden will showcase what homeless people can achieve with the right support.”

The gardening project is aimed at helping people struggling with addictions, by providing a diversion from drugs and alcohol. For people with mental health problems gardening can build confidence and skills. Sharon Price, 33, said Down to Earth has “transformed” her life, helping her stay sober since finishing a detox programme, improving her health through fresh air, exercise and eating fresh fruit and vegetables, and giving her the motivation to enroll for a course.