Thrive (The Society For Horticultural Therapy)

Thrive is the leading charity in the UK that uses gardening to bring about positive changes in the lives of people who are living with disabilities or ill health or are isolated, disadvantaged or vulnerable. This is known as social and therapeutic horticulture (STH). Social and Therapeutic Horticulture uses plants and gardens to improve physical and mental health, as well as communication and thinking skills. Gardens provide a safe and secure place to develop someone's ability to mix socially, improve fitness and learn practical skills which will help them to be more independent. We inspire and encourage the people who come to us by focusing on what they can do – not on what they can’t do. We run therapeutic programmes at our garden sites in Battersea Park, London; Beech Hill, Reading, and Birmingham. We also go out to care homes, village halls and community projects to encourage gardening activities. Our clients include people who have injuries from accidents; people with learning impairments or physical impairments such as sight or hearing loss; those with age-related conditions such as stroke, dementia and heart problems as well as young people who have social emotional or behavioural difficulties and people with ill health after leaving the armed forces. Thrive also offers: A variety of training and education opportunities ranging from one-day workshops to higher education qualifications for professionals and potential career changers. Tailored training to suit specific needs of individual organisations or groups. Expert consultancy services for charities, statutory and private organisations. Corporate Social Responsibility Days. Speakers for professional and community events. Many volunteering opportunities in our gardens, offices and at special fund-raising events. To find out more please visit www.thrive.org.uk or email info@thrive.org.uk