Finding solace at Furzey: Sean, Liam, Jason and Matt:

During the COVID pandemic Furzey Gardens was a place of solace for many people with learning disabilities.

As the garden celebrates its centenary, Sean, Liam, Jason and Matt tell us about their own special year memories as they found solace during a difficult time.

Sean enjoys coming to work at Furzey Gardens, he helps to do some of the garden maintenance jobs that help to keep the gardens open to visitors. Sean didn’t enjoy last year during the lockdowns, as lots of things were different.

Liam likes to work at Furzey Gardens to learn skills that help keep the gardens looking good for the visitors who come.

Jason has missed going to the pub with his friends. Jason also misses going go-karting. He is very excited to be going to the pantomime in December. He has benefited from volunteer buddy support that has made a real difference to his ability to go out and about.

Matt enjoys working in the nursery at Furzey Gardens and has recently been potting spring bulbs, ready for us to sell in plant sales next year. Matt missed a number a things during the pandemic, such as working in the wood workshops at Minstead Trust and he also missed coming along to support the annual Minstead Trust fete.

Sean, Liam, Jason and Matt are supported to work in the garden as part of Furzey Gardens’ work supporting people with learning disabilities.