Friends of Antrim Castle Gardens and Action Mental Health Antrim have been working closely for a number of years. Working together has improved the confidence, self-esteem, motivation, social and communication skills and has made a positive difference to the mental health and wellbeing of adults in the area.
I have been working alongside Friends of Antrim Castle Gardens for the past 4 years. Anne and all the volunteer team have been amazing to work alongside. Every Spring I have the pleasure in providing several new clients to become volunteers with FoACG to support their outdoor garden team at the beautiful Antrim Castle Gardens.
Many of them continue to stay on independently with FoACG and it is great to see them kitted out in the green outdoor wear when I make my visits.
Being part of the team in FoACG has improved my clients’ confidence, self-esteem, motivation and social and communication skills. It has enabled them to give back to their community, whilst gaining valuable work experience enabling them to move forward with their lives whilst on their mental health journey.
This is valuable work experience to add to their CV, gain references, and great preparation for them to progress forward into the world of work. My clients and I really appreciate the FoACG team as they are supportive, patient, welcoming and inclusive with each one of my clients.
Words from our Volunteers
“At the beginning the courtyard gardens were a mess and it took a lot of very hard work. We must have lifted enough stones to restore the castle, but watching the gardens develop over the years has gave me a great sense of achievement and pride as a volunteer.
I enjoy the camaraderie with all the other volunteers and the council workers and have made so many new friends. It is lovely to receive all the brilliant comments from visitors, from all over the world, about our hard work and upkeep of the gardens.” Eileen
“I enjoy the hard work, the exercise, the beauty of the gardens and the fresh air. I am constantly learning new things. There is a great social element to the group and fabulous camaraderie.”
Jean
“It is great to feel helpful and part of a great team of people. I would recommend this to all those who love the outdoors.”
Andrew
