ABBEY PHYSIC COMMUNITY GARDEN

ABBEY PHYSIC COMMUNITY GARDEN

At a glance

Causes

  • Environment
  • Learning disabilities / difficulties
  • Men
  • Mental health
  • Older people / later life
  • Training / employment support

Other details

Organisation type: 
Charity
Geographical remit: 
Local

Objectives

We help people with mental health issues, those who are lonely, socially isolated or economically disadvantaged to improve their physical and mental health and wellbeing, improve self-esteem and confidence and integrate with the wider community. We do this through a magical combination of peer support, therapeutic gardening, horticulture training, Men's Shed project, community kitchen producing shared healthy meals and teaching people how to cook, plus our outreach project where members help restore neglected community spaces. Recent additions include a monthly Happiness Cafe, singing group and bereavement counselling.

Activities

For many of our members the Physic Garden is a life saver. Our beautiful tranquil space in the heart of Faversham is a place where they will be welcomed, can make new friends and learn new skills and share their own experiences to help other people. Peer support is as important as participating in the many activities we offer. Being open to the public helps break down the stigma of mental ill health. We work collaboratively with many other community organisations, many of whom use the garden for meetings and events. 

Current opportunities

We currently have an opening in our Trustee Board for a Company Secretary to join our Board of Trustees to contribute to the essential behind-the-...