1. To enable people of all abilities to learn and work together.
2. To work with local individuals, organisations and groups to carry out environmental projects.
3. To raise awareness of the need to protect and conserve our environment.
4. To offer opportunities for training and work experience.
First hand experience of the needs of people who have learning difficulties together with research undertaken by Mudlarks, Earthworks St.Albans and other concerned groups has highlighted a great need for a facility in the Hertford area that offers opportunities for training and work experience in land based skills.
The garden aims to facilitate access to the 'normal' means by which people can meet their needs e.g.through work, social networks, social activities etc. A good social network positively influences a person's mood, and therefore makes them less anxious and enhances their quality of life. Gardening is not a treatment, but a means of promoting health by strengthening an individual's self esteem and confidence. It also strengthens communities by reducing stigma, prejudice and alienation. |