Perennial - the horticulturists' charity

Did you know there is a national charity that provides help and support specifically for anyone who works or has worked in horticulture? The charity is called Perennial and was established back in 1839 to help retiring or sick estate gardeners. Although proud of our heritage, times have changed and these days we extend our help to all who work in horticulture; that could include gardeners, nursery workers, arborists, grounds and parks staff, landscapers or garden centre employees.

Horticulturists are often self-employed or work alone and so may be lacking the support of colleagues and employers, while those who have retired from the profession or had to stop work because of illness or disability may also be experiencing social isolation and find asking for help all the more difficult. We provide help through a team of caseworkers; all caring professionals who can advise on anything from help with a benefits claim to re-training, accommodation and housing, family issues, employment rights or coping with a disability. Perennial also provides retirement accommodation and financial help in the form of one-off grants and long term, regular support.

Perennial - to help retired or sick gardeners

We know that there are no standard answers to any one problem and our approach is to identify the best method of support for each individual, get it in place as soon as possible and maintain that support, so people such as Fred can rely on Perennial for as long as necessary:

Mr M, a self-employed gardener, was forced to take early retirement due to health problems. After suddenly losing his main income he found himself struggling to pay bills and as the debts mounted, his physical and mental well-being deteriorated. When we heard about Mr M's plight, one of our senior caseworkers stepped in to help sort out his affairs. She talked to his creditors and helped to work out a budget that would enable him to keep on top of his living expenses. Mr M recently wrote to express his appreciation:

"…My caseworker's performance on my behalf has been fantastic. She has successfully negotiated reduced payments, making the situation easier to deal with. The reduction in stress levels and worry means I can now see the light at the end of the tunnel.

"I will always feel a debt of gratitude for the help and support Perennial has provided. My eternal gratitude to you all… thank you!”

As an RHS and chairman of the 'Britain in Bloom' panel of judges, Jim Buttress is a familiar and popular figure on the flower show circuit. You may also know him from BBC2's 'Return to Lullingstone Castle', where he has been giving Tom Hart Dyke the benefit of his horticultural wisdom as they work together on the 'World Garden'. Jim has been involved with Perennial for many, many years and is currently serving on the charity's Board of Trustees. "Working in horticulture can bring tremendous opportunities and is hugely satisfying but when something goes wrong - such as illness or injury - the consequences for the individuals concerned can be disastrous. That's why Perennial's work is so important and why I would like to ask for your support."

We rely on the friendship and generosity of our supporters to maintain our services. You can help in many ways: by becoming a volunteer, joining our supporter scheme, making a donation, buying our cards and gifts or simply making a donation. To find out more please visit our website www.perennial.org.uk.