DIRECTORY OF VOLUNTARY ORGANISATIONS

 
Access
Address: St James Hospital, Locksway Road, Portsmouth, PO4 8LD
Telephone: 023 9273 7724 (Kathy Pitt)
Website: none
 
Referral Method
Referrals taken from a variety of sources. Some self referrals accepted depending on circumstance. Other referrals may be made by CMHT/social workers or hospital wards liaising with Greenfingers
 
History
This project has been running since 1989, It is a well established and well regarded project for those interested in horticulture either as a hobby or as a vocation.
 
Current Activities
There are two main sectors to Greenfingers. First is the plant sales area. This covers everything from planting seeds to arranging displays for the public. The contract sector is comprised of small teams doing gardening work as a commercial enterprise. These two sectors allow a range of training to be undertaken. Training is given on a variety of machines and also health and safety. If trainees feel they are ready they can train for NVQ level 1 or 2 in horticulture. Greenfingers prides itself on its 'real work' approach. It offers a stepping stone back into work and is self financing which gives it its commercial edge.
 
Future Plans
Greenfingers plans to develop into a 'social enterprise' and to continue its policy of employing the disabled.