Grimsby Garden Centre, run by Navigo, supports mental health through gardening, offering a welcoming space for individuals to connect and grow.
Grimsby Garden Centre is part of Navigo, a not-for-profit organization. They provide mental health services in North East Lincolnshire. Gardening is known to help improve mental well-being, so people can be referred to work there.
Anyone receiving support from Navigo can join the garden centre. They can be referred by staff or self-refer through the Navigo website. Partner organizations also send referrals. Currently, about 40 participants join each week.
Participants range in age from 18 to over 60. The program has been running for seven years and started at the Floral Hall in Grimsby.
The garden centre has a retail greenhouse and a separate area for growing plants. Each week, the nursery manager sends a list of tasks for volunteers to help with.
They also have an allotment area for growing produce. This area will expand this year with a new greenhouse and seating.
The work is flexible and tailored to each participant. It’s a relaxed atmosphere, and people can come and go as they please.
Two women who lived in the same village for years met at the centre and now walk their dogs together.
Wayne, a Navigo service user, shared that meeting new people has been the best part of his experience. Everyone is welcoming and friendly.
The centre employs 22 staff members. Some participants have moved on to paid jobs after gaining confidence. Manager Craig Champion noted that five staff members started as participants.
Craig emphasized the importance of helping people feel ready to apply for jobs outside their comfort zone. It’s rewarding to see them thrive in their lives.
Over the past year, two service users worked in the kitchen and found jobs elsewhere after four weeks. They needed a routine and a reason to get up in the morning.
Craig has been the manager for five years and has been part of the garden centre for nearly ten years. They aim to maintain a family business feel.
During his time, the cafe, The Potting Shed, expanded due to high demand. They were turning people away daily.
Profits from the garden centre go back into improving the site and supporting Navigo services. This helps those in need.
Martin, a volunteer, shared his journey. He has been a member and is starting a horticulture course soon. He believes spending time in nature is beneficial.
The centre is open Monday to Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM and Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM. The Potting Shed operates daily from 9 AM to 2:30 PM.
