Perennial: Supporting people in horticulture across the UK

Beth Porter, from horticultural charity Perennial, on the important work carried out by the charity and how you can help support them. - 16 August 2024

If you're passionate about gardening, you know the joy and tranquillity it brings. Yet, the physical demands and unforeseen challenges of working in horticulture can be significant. That’s where Perennial, a charity dedicated to helping people working in horticulture in the UK, steps in.

What is Perennial?

Perennial, originally known as the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Society, has been a beacon of support for those in horticulture since its foundation in 1839. Its mission is simple yet profound: to provide free and confidential information, support and advice to those working in or retired from horticulture and their families.

How Perennial Helps

Perennial offers a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of gardeners, landscapers, nurserymen and women and other horticulturalists. Life can be challenging and overwhelming at times, and when it is, horticulturists and their families can turn to Perennial. One-on-one support is available, along with online resources, tools, and apps to help with health and wellbeing, employment, housing, money and debt management, and family and legal affairs.

During the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, Perennial’s services have never been so important. In an average year, people accessing support might jump by around eight percent; but last year, casework leapt by 42%. The charity’s 2023 Impact Report and recent figures show the pressing need for its services across the industry. Over 31,000 preventative services and activities were delivered last year, with 2,221 people and their families receiving direct personal support to improve their lives. 

The borders at The Laskett, one of Perennial's gardens, in Herefordshire

A success story: Simon’s journey

Simon was in his 50s when he made a brave decision to return to his first love of gardening. He left his job as a teacher, worked his way up to lead gardener, sold his house and relocated to take up a traineeship at a heritage garden.

Simon wanted to find employment in this area, but to do so he needed machinery skills on his CV. He wouldn’t get hired without them and was struggling to raise the £1,000 course money.

Perennial helped Simon access the training he needed and liaised with his training provider to negotiate his course structure and additional personal protective equipment (PPE) fee.

 

 “After my traineeship finished, I set up as a self-employed gardener in my home town where I lived with a friend. I really wanted to be employed but I couldn’t get past the interview stage without my machinery certificates, and I couldn’t afford to get them. Work was quiet so I was barely earning and only just getting by on Jobseeker’s Allowance. I was starting to think my new career choice was a bad idea. It was at that point that I gave Perennial a call and things turned around for me. I was so thankful when they provided financial help and a caseworker; between us, we worked it all out and here I am now employed as a groundsman for a fabulous landscape. The training and support that I received from Perennial changed my life and helped my career to fall into place. Thanks to their help, I’m exactly where I want to be,” said Simon.   

How you can get involved

Both individuals and garden clubs and societies play a crucial role in supporting Perennial’s mission. Here’s how you can help:

• Events and meetings: Invite a Perennial representative to speak at your events, increasing awareness about the charity’s services. Perennial also offers garden talks, featuring an inspirational selection of professional horticulturists and experts. Your club or group will be provided with an entertaining and informative presentation on a chosen subject. 
• Newsletters and social media: Share information about Perennial’s work in your newsletters and on social media platforms.
• Charity events: Host fundraising events such as garden tours or plant sales with proceeds going to Perennial.
• Membership: Perennial offers a ‘Friends of Perennial’ scheme which permits entry for members and a guest into Perennial’s three gardens, along with other exclusive benefits.
• Become a volunteer: Encourage members to volunteer their time and skills to support Perennial’s activities, from fundraising to working on plant creches at flower shows.

 

Perennial's three gardens at The Laskett, Fuller's Mill and York Gate

Perennial is a cornerstone of support for the gardening community in the UK. By offering vital services and assistance, it ensures that those who dedicate their lives to nurturing our green spaces receive the care and support they need in return. As keen gardeners and members of garden clubs and societies, your support and involvement with Perennial can make a profound difference in the lives of fellow horticulturists. 

By embracing and promoting Perennial, we can help cultivate a more supportive and resilient horticultural community, ensuring that every person working in the industry can continue to thrive in both their personal and professional lives.

For more information or to get involved, visit Perennial’s website.