We’ve had big news at the Yard this month as Thomas joins the Board of Trustees at The Herefordshire Growing Point , a charity that helps people living with physical or mental challenges or ill health, to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of gardening.
The charity is one that has captured Thomas’ interest for many years, so we’re thrilled to see him take this step to become the charities youngest board member. Thomas joins a dedicated team and volunteers under the stewardship of the charity’s Honorary President, Tamsin Westhorpe, keep reading to hear more about this amazing step for Thomas and what it means to him.
When did you first hear about the charity?
It was the start of 2022 and at the time I had excess stock that I had sourced to resolve a supply issue. I needed to clear the pots to free up some space and having listened to so many stories of local bodies struggling to get funding for purchases, it seemed a good idea that I could donate the surplus to a local cause.
Having briefly looked at some local charities & wider social groups, there were so many amazing causes but Herefordshire Growing Point and what they were all about, really stood out to me, a local charity using practical gardening to benefit local people.
What made you want to become a trustee?
Until you have stood in a small polytunnel with a group of Herefordshire Growing Point users and you have personally witnessed them laughing and socialising as one big family, it’s hard to describe the effects this charity can have on a person. For a start, you’d be tougher than me if some of the stories and the journeys taken didn’t bring a tear to your eye.
The charity exists to deliver a scheme that is so simple, yet so effective - and I really like it. Boots on the ground work that really does deliver life-changing results for its users.
When I received an email from Amelia asking if I would be keen to use my experience from growing Tom’s Yard to help the charity, I could not believe it. I couldn’t possibly shy away from an opportunity to help such a fantastic organisation and I’m honoured at 28 to have the chance to do something I never thought I would do - especially under the age of 50!
What do you hope to achieve during your time as a trustee?
I’m keen to raise the profile of the charity with people and businesses around Herefordshire. Although it receives annual funding through grants and trusts, as with most charities, it relies upon donations to keep the wheels turning.
My initial goal with Herefordshire Growing Point would be to see its profile raised and relationships nurtured with corporate sponsors. Although it sounds awfully commercial for a charity of such a nature, having seen it through my time as a member of Round Table, business partners can prove to be hugely rewarding for charities though annual or event sponsorship, support with purchases, or general industry connections for advice & help. It need not always be financial.
Herefordshire is bursting with businesses operating in the garden industry; from nurseries and independent garden centers, to manufacturers and suppliers, like myself, there is a wealth of exceptional businesses backed by passionate individuals.
With the profile of my business now reasonably established in the area - I think I’m primed to make a few calls when the time comes and once the new Herefordshire Growing Point website & branding is finalised, really push this amazing cause into the spotlight.
This all sounds so amazing so tell us how someone can support the charity ??
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Spreading the word! You or your family might not benefit from HGP’s services directly, but perhaps a neighbour or a friend's family member might? Or you might even know a local business owner that could make a huge impact.
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Donations of old garden equipment (it may not seem obvious but what a help!).
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Volunteer (this could be as a tutor, outreach tutor, member of support staff, help at an event…)
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Committing to a monthly standing donation, which is great for cashflow and planning events.
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Making a one-off donation.
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Even considering a Charitable Legacy (leaving a donation to HGP in your will).
If you’d like to join a session at Herefordshire Growing Point or would like to hear more about what they do please call or email Amelia
01432 805705
hgrowingpoint@yahoo.co.uk
