Thrive

Sunday is a good day for a slow a wander. It could be in your own garden, a local park, an open garden or just a wander around your neighbourhood. There is no need to go far or to rush. Simply take your time and notice the start of the seasons changes. It could also be a lovely chance to share the walk with someone else. Why not invite a friend, family member or neighbour to come along?

Before we dive into autumn we would love to encourage you to take a moment to look back on the spring and summer you have had.

If you find yourself with a spare moment this weekend, here are a few questions to reflect on:

What did you enjoy most about spending time in nature?
Which month was your favourite, and why?
Did you grow anything new this year?

You might like to write down your thoughts, step outside for some fresh air, or simply enjoy a quiet moment to yourself. 🌻🍂

If you are looking for a few gentle ways to feel good this Autumn, we have a little something to help. Our autumn wellbeing calendar is a four-week journey of simple activities. There is a mix of practical, creative, indoor and outdoor things to try.

Our free Autumn Wellbeing Calendar was created to help boost your health and happiness throughout the season. Whether you have a garden, balcony or windowsill, there is something for everyone!

Download your free calendar https://www.thrive.org.uk/get-gardening/autumn-wellbeing-calendar and discover how small moments in nature can make a big difference. 🍂

We were delighted to receive a grant of £1,218 from The Finnis Scott Foundation towards materials for our Growing Out programme at Thrive, Birmingham.

Their support will help more people experience the positive impact of gardening on health and wellbeing, while learning new skills and building confidence.

Thank you to The Finnis Scott Foundation for helping us transform lives through gardening.

Earlier this year, client gardener Beth planted a selection of herbs specially chosen for making herbal teas. After months of tending, watering and watching them grow, they recently enjoyed a well-earned tea tasting session using their homegrown harvest. 🍵

It is that time of year again at here at Thrive, Birmingham! Our apple trees have been busy, and so have we, harvesting this season’s crop and learning how to turn it into delicious fresh apple juice.

Client gardeners, alongside a visiting college group, had the opportunity to get hands-on with the apple press, taking part in every stage of the process from preparing the fruit to pressing the juice. It was a fantastic way to learn new skills, work together and enjoy the fruits of everyone’s hard work.

Of course, the highlight of the day was tasting the freshly pressed apple juice, a well-earned reward and a wonderful celebration of the harvest season.

We wanted to share some photos from last week and say a big heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us at the Thrive, Reading Flower Show last week. It was a special day and together we raised just over £700 to support our work transforming lives through gardening. Your support makes a real difference. 🌿

🌱 Looking to get active, meet new people and enjoy time in nature?

Join Sow & Grow, our free 12-week gardening programme in Birmingham. Enjoy seasonal gardening activities, nature-based crafts and a friendly, supportive environment where you can learn new skills and boost your wellbeing.

📅 Wednesdays, from 30 September to 9 December

🕧 12.30pm to 2.30pm

📍 WASH Project, Ward End Park, Birmingham

Find out more and sign up: https://www.thrive.org.uk/how-we-help/regional-centres-and-programmes/birmingham/sow-and-grow-birmingham

Did you know, we offer a range of Social and Therapeutic Horticulture (STH) training courses and workshops designed to support everyone from complete beginners to experienced practitioners. Whether you are taking your first steps into STH or looking to deepen your expertise, there is a learning pathway to suit your goals.

Our training includes:
🌿 Foundation courses for those new to Social and Therapeutic Horticulture
🌿 Intermediate courses to help practitioners enhance their skills and achieve better outcomes for the people they support
🌿 Advanced qualifications, including our Award and Diploma programmes, for those wanting to develop specialist expertise in STH

Through flexible online, blended and face-to-face learning opportunities, we are helping build the knowledge, confidence and practical skills needed to use gardening to improve health and wellbeing.

Explore our training opportunities and discover how you can make a difference through the power of gardening.