About the service

Growing People is a therapeutic gardening project based in Letchworth, offering social and therapeutic horticulture for adults in Hertfordshire and surrounding areas. We support people living with a wide range of mental health needs – from mild to more complex conditions.

Through gardening, we help individuals reduce stress, build confidence, feel more connected, and learn new skills in a friendly and supportive outdoor setting. Our sessions are guided by qualified horticultural therapists and trained volunteers.

Whether you’re looking for support, making a referral, or simply want to learn more – we’re here to help.

At Growing People, we use structured gardening sessions to support mental wellbeing. Each person attends a weekly half-day group session (Monday or Tuesday, morning or afternoon). Activities include:

  • Planting and maintaining flower or veg beds
  • Propagating herbs and plants
  • Harvesting seasonal produce
  • Chatting over a cuppa and compost

Sessions are small (up to 7 people) and adapted to individual needs. You don’t need any gardening experience to join – just an interest in spending time outdoors.

What are the benefits?

Our gardeners often tell us they feel:

  • Less stressed and more calm
  • Fitter and more active
  • More confident
  • Less isolated
  • Happier being around others

It’s amazing how easy it is to open up while sowing seeds or digging in compost. The garden is a relaxed space – never clinical – and welcomes everyone just as they are.

Referrals

We accept referrals from professionals, individuals, and family members.

If you or someone you know could benefit, the first step is to visit the garden and talk to us about how it works, funding arrangements and the next steps in referral.

All sessions take place at The Sadie Centre in Letchworth. We run three-hour sessions on the following days:

  • Mondays: Morning and afternoon sessions
  • Tuesdays: Morning and afternoon sessions
  • Wednesdays: Afternoon session only

Please contact us by phone or email with any questions or to make an appointment to visit.

Who can refer?

  • GPs and social prescribers
  • Mental health professionals
  • Support workers
  • Voluntary/community organisations
  • Individuals and family members

Fees apply for this service

  • Sessions cost £30 each for a three-hour session
  • Some places are funded by grants (free to participants)
  • If you’re unsure about funding, please speak to us – we’ll always try to help

Contact us

To find out more about the project, arrange a visit or discuss a referral, please get in touch with us:

Phone: 01462 678 804
Email: growingpeople@hertsmindnetwork.org