Location
Originally established in Winchelsea in 1988,
Friary Gardeners has been based at Ore Place Farm since early
1995. This attractive two acre site was derelict but is now
fully operational and is continuously being developed and
improved. The gardens, although secluded, are conveniently
located just off the Ridge and are easily accessible to service
users by both private and public transport. St Helens Woods
are adjacent to the site. |
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What the Service Offers
Friary Gardeners offers horticultural training
and greater independence to people with disability through the raising
of annual and perennial plants from seed, growing flowers and vegetables,
the sale of plants and produce and the provision of gardening services
to the local community, particularly those who are elderly and/or
have a disability. All the revenue generated by the sale of plants
and services is "ploughed" straight back into the work.
Our Aim
Our aim is to create a balance between purposeful
occupation, hard work and a relaxed atmosphere in which service
users can enjoy their day. They are encouraged to pursue individual
projects as well as participating in team activity (Please
click on the link above to see the Friary Gardeners activities
page). Plans for the future include construction
of raised growing beds to widen opportunities to people in
wheelchairs.
Facilities
Facilities on site include two large polytunnels,
one of which is heated, plant propagating units and a "mess"
hut with amenities to make hot drinks and eat lunch. The old
farm buildings are used to store materials and equipment,
as well as housing a toilet block. There is also a small project
office and a shop. One walled garden incorporates display
flowerbeds and a large vegetable growing area; the second
walled garden is down to grass and is currently used for recreational
and sporting activities. We also have pool and table tennis
tables. |
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Monitoring Progress
Six monthly reviews are convened for all full time
service users and parents, carers, Social Service Assessors and
any other relevant persons are invited. The underlying principle
of reviews is to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness and success
of the scheme with regard to the particular individual. This then
allows future goals to be accurately identified and agreed. All
reviews are seen as an opportunity to further the development of
the person concerned. This development should be based on the needs
and wishes of the service user themselves and the expression of
these needs and wishes should be encouraged at all times. Friary
Gardeners has an active Equal Opportunities policy.
Staffing
The project has a full time manager and three full
time project workers and is open all year. Both full and part time
places are available and it is possible for people to combine a
part time place at Friary Gardeners with a part time place at The
Parchment Trust Co operative or another service. For further information
about the Co operative, please ask for their brochure.
The League of Friends
The League of Friends for Friary Gardeners supports
the project and helps with fund raising. Membership to The League
is open to all and the initial subscription is £2.00. New members
are always welcome.
Service Hours
The service is available from 8.00am to 4.00pm,
Monday to Friday for service users and is open to the public for
the sale of plants and produce, Monday to Friday 9.00am to 3.00pm.
This offers a service to the community, enabling people to purchase
high quality plants at competitive prices. It also offers service
users the chance to deal with the public and to handle money in
a professional environment. Two Open Days are also held each year.
If you have any questions, then please do not hesitate
in contacting us by going to the further information page.
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