Brathay’s new garden ‘force’!
A group of veterans from the British Armed Forces have been giving their time voluntarily to create special ‘wellbeing spaces’ on the grounds of our estate at Brathay.
The six ex-army personnel first came to Brathay as participants on a wellbeing programme run in partnership with Future 4 Heroes, as part of the ongoing support they receive whilst re-adjusting to civilian life. By way of a thank-you, and in a bid to give something back to our charity, they decided to return soon afterwards as volunteer gardeners.
The group used planters, plants and other materials generously donated by local suppliers to brighten up a neglected piece of ground beside our kit store and other previously uninviting corners around the grounds. The benefit has been two-fold: not only have they been able to participate in a positive, transformational project that future visitors will enjoy, they’ve also used the time to re-connect with one another and reflect on the progress they have each made since attending the Brathay course.
One of the volunteers, Fiona, said:
To be able to support Future 4 Heroes and Brathay in one is invigorating. It’s amazing how much you can achieve as a team whilst having a laugh and taking time out for you.
Another, Matt, described it as a great weekend:
So peaceful and so much achieved. And I’m not just talking about the gardening!
It is hoped that such gardening weekends will become a regular event, bringing a positive impact to the volunteers as well as the wider Brathay community.
Meanwhile, huge thanks to the local firms for donating products in support of the project:
