The Growing Space is the charity that organises gardening activities for both adults and children at The Balsam Centre in Wincanton, Somerset. The Balsam Centre is a healthy living centre that provides lots of different activities and services that help all members of the local community remain physically and mentally healthy, happy and content.
Our horticulture workers organise
mood–boosting activities that enable beneficial contact
with nature in the ornamental and productive gardens
surrounding the centre. They ensure that gardening
activities meet the needs of everyone involved.
These activities also match the NHS 'five steps to
wellbeing'.
People who have been involved in gardening here have reported that the benefits included:
Everyone enjoys the relaxing and communal way we garden, sharing the ups and downs of growing vegetables, fruit and flowers – and sharing the produce!!
How can we help you begin overcoming your difficulties?
Do you want to refer your client to our services?
Do you want to volunteer to help us deliver services?
The Balsam Centre is starting a new project offering men the opportunity to get involved in craft and DIY - read more
What do we do?
→ We grow vegetables and fruit for The Balsam Centre’s kitchens
→ Advice & guidance for new gardeners and growers
→ Activities to boost confidence and self esteem for those experiencing emotional difficulties, anxiety or depression
→ Food Growing for schools and pre-schools
→ Learning disability support & training
→Activity tailored for mobility and physical problems
→Training for individuals & organisations
→ Confidence boosting for returning to work
→ Working vegetable garden
→ Heated propagation house
→ 13m x 5m glasshouse
→ Shady borders and lawns
→Herbaceous borders
→New orchard
→Children's areas
→Herb gardens
→Ponds and wildlife
→Cut flower beds
→Resources room
→Tea room