The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is an incredible annual show held every year and admired by people across the world. This year two young people were lucky enough to receive work experience thanks to Chilstone, who specialise in creating beautiful and elegant antique and contemporary garden ornaments. They supported Chilstone to create their Trade Stand which since gone on to be awarded four gold stars.
“Seeing the D-Day garden was ‘wow.’ It was a pleasure, to be honest, and an honour. I met two soldiers there. That was a brilliant experience because I want to go in to the Mechanical Engineers and that’s what they were in. So it was perfect timing to meet them and get some career advice." These are the words of one of two young people who worked at the Chelsea Flower Show 2019.
Siobhan, who works in our services in Barnsley, supported the young people during their work experience and shares her experiences throughout the day:
“We have always been keen gardeners, but total novices! Many of the homeless young people we support have had to live through challenging times so years ago we created a garden where people could relax, enjoy soaking up the smells and let their worries be forgotten, even if only for a short period of time. We found getting out into the garden to be really important for the wellbeing and mental health of the people we support.
“The garden has grown so much since then. We also grow our own fruit and vegetables and have an eco-green house, which we call Womble House after the children’s television programme.
"It was fantastic to be offered the opportunity to meet with some of the greatest minds in gardening through Chilstone. We set off on this epic journey to London keen to learn more about sustainable gardening and using natural products. It was such an honour to work with the team and see some of the other amazing gardens close-up, including the D-Day Garden.
“This opportunity has given the young people a real insight into working life and it’s been amazing to see all of their hard work come to life. I am so proud. Words fail us in describing how fantastic it looks. We hope you enjoy it!”
© David Monteith-Hodge
