Sow n’ Grow Nursery is an integral part of the Integrate Social Enterprise Charity in Preston. The nursery is based in Haslam Park off Blackpool Road in Preston, they sell a wide range of quality plants at great prices, including shrubs, hardy perennials, herbs, rockery and bedding plants.
Integrate was founded in 1983 with a vision to pioneer a different way of supporting people with learning disabilities and complex needs, in a way that reflected our belief that every person has a right to be a valued member of the community. The vision for community-based support was brought to life 35 years ago when Integrate became the first of its kind in Lancashire to support numerous adults to move out of long stay hospitals and into their own homes within their local community and enjoy the rights that we continue to uphold as our mission:
Working with partner organisations, Sow n’ Grow provide gardening opportunities for a number of disadvantaged people to take part in a worthwhile activity. This gives them life experience and some considerable training provided by expert gardeners. These, in turn, are supported by a team of volunteers. The nursery is open to the public and a vast range of produce is available to buy thus helping the nursery to flourish.
The members of Preston Guild Lodge No 4408, were proud to offer some support to Sow n’ Grow. David Parker and Tim Horton visited the nursery and presented a cheque for £1,000. It was a great time to go as it was fish and chips day and the gardeners were excited both by the donation and the pending arrival of their favourite lunch!
Helena Lemper, who manages the nursery said: “The activities of those who spend time working in the gardens really enhances their lives in a very positive way. The timing of the donation was very useful.” Peter Green from Integrate said: “The main polytunnel is in need of recovering and resurfacing. The donation will cover that as well as heated trays in the tunnel.”
Preparation work was underway on that restoration as the polytunnel was being cleared. The team were looking forward to completing the task and making their work more efficient.
