During Coastline’s Volunteers Week celebrations, garden volunteers from Miners Court and the Homeless Service met for the first time. This connection sparked a shared vision to enhance the existing communal garden at Miners Court, making it into an even more welcoming, inclusive, and vibrant space for everyone to enjoy.
Growing ideas into action
Together, the volunteers shared creative ideas to enrich the garden. Their ideas included:
Two new raised beds - designed for use by both day centre customers and residents. Garden volunteer Eric noted how much joy and therapeutic value residents found in spending time outdoors, and expanding the garden space would only enhance this experience.
A floral tribute - a once-overgrown bank behind the greenhouse was identified as a space which could be cleared and transformed into a colourful display. Volunteers felt planting flowers to create the shape of an ‘M’ and ‘C’, would be a beautiful and meaningful feature for everyone to enjoy.
A community effort
After consulting with Miners Court residents, there was enthusiastic support for the project which then got underway throughout July and August 2025
Homeless Service garden volunteers brought hands-on experience, particularly in constructing raised beds and preparing the planting areas, skills they’ve developed through similar projects. Meanwhile, Miners Court garden volunteers contributed their gardening knowledge, helping to plan the layout and select the best plants and locations to ensure the garden flourishes.
Everyone was encouraged to get involved, with activities adapted to suit all abilities. From digging and planting to painting and decorating the beds, every contribution helped bring the shared vision to life.
Why it matters
This project is a wonderful example of how small changes can make a big difference, and promotes the Five Ways to Wellbeing:
Connect – Strengthening bonds between services and individuals
Be Active – Encouraging movement and outdoor activity
Take Notice – Creating a space to enjoy nature and seasonal beauty
Keep Learning – Sharing gardening skills and ideas
Give – Volunteering time and energy for a shared purpose
One Day Centre customer commented: "I like being part of the garden because its great getting to be involved in projects and getting outside. I’ve gardened all my life and it is nice I can continue here."
A Homeless Service Garden Volunteer added: "The customers involved all seem to be in good spirits. Getting involved in the garden is better than twiddling my thumbs and watching TV at home. It’s good to be able to share my skills, they were pleasantly surprised how quick I cut the wood!"
The Miners Court garden is now more vibrant than ever and is a symbol of unity, wellbeing, and community collaboration.
A big thank you to Coastline’s Services team and our generous donors:
EEM who gave £274 towards materials, Chris Sedgeman Scaffolding for a donation of scaffolding boards and Kevin Hawke of Greenfingers for a donation of topsoil.
Thanks to their support and the dedication of our volunteers, something truly special has grown.