The Ashley Gardens project

Ashley Gardens is a care home for the elderly, nursing those with Alzheimer's, dementia and physical disabilities. It has limited funds and is reliant on help from volunteers.

They have a large garden which is used and enjoyed by residents. Residents not only enjoy gardening as a leisure activity, but also gain benefits to their health and emotional well being.

Ashley Gardens asked the Kent Community Project team to build a large pergola with trellis work, big enough to provide a seating area but not too intrusive and in keeping with the garden.

The young people on the project discussed the plans and materials to be used. They decided amongst themselves which tasks they would each undertake and be responsible for, and they also planned the work schedule as a team.

Along with the practical skills the young people learnt on the project they also received training to help them improve their employability skills.

To further help the young people seek employment or further education and training, the young people had the opportunity to improve their life skills in areas such as CV writing, job search, team working, and planning and problem solving.

All the young people on the programme achieved the following certificates:

• Fire safety
• First aid
• Manual handling
• CSCS card – (Construction site certificate of safety)

Feedback from the young people

Scott
Scott was the only student that did not miss a single day on the project.
He is 18 and has a young baby. Before joining the Kent Community Programme he had got into a bit of a rut staying indoors and losing any motivation to look for work.

Scott said: - “It has helped me to get motivated and communicate with new people.

Warren
Warren had very little experience in construction and wanted an opportunity to get involved and have a go at some practical tasks.

Warren said: - “The project showed me the basics of working in construction”

Robin
Robin was already quite motivated to find work but needed a bit more confidence and faith in his own abilities. He was very committed only missing one day on project and that was for a pre-arranged appointment.
Robin applied for a six week labouring job whilst on project and was offered the job after he passed his CSCS card.  He was also offered a pre-apprenticeship training course with Concept Training.

Robin said: - “The project helped me a lot, I have now got certificates and a CSCS Card and it has helped me build my confidence and practical skills and communication, also I have now got a portfolio”.

Aaron
Aaron was a very quiet young man with virtually no experience or skills in practical tasks.  When he first started the project he struggled to join in with the rest of the group or communicate confidently.

Aaron said: - “It’s helped me to work with other people”

Lee
Lee had previously attended college but due to family problems had to leave home and move away. He currently lives at Trinity Foyer.  He is going to work with one of his friends once he has completed the project and passed the CSCS Test.

Lee said: - “The project has helped me a lot, I’ve learnt a lot and will now go on and use this”.