Community gardeners hope for boost in trade
A community organisation, that works with young people with learning difficulties, is hoping for a boost in trade thanks to a new sign.
Cherry Orchard Garden Services (COGS), based at Burntwood Memorial Community Centre, provide care for people with special educational needs and disabilities, autism and mental health problems.
The not-for-profit organisation is run for and by those with SEND needs who face barriers to being integrated into the community.
Support staff at the centre train members of COGS to be gardeners and provide practical work in the community.
Members of the group help those in need by gardening for frail elderly people in Burntwood and Lichfield who struggle to maintain their gardens due to illness and vulnerability.
A new large sign has been installed at the community centre on Rugeley Road with hopes of drumming up more trade for the service.
As well as gardening, COGS also focus on increasing the self-esteem and confidence of its members.
They promote independent living and practical skills, such as cooking healthy meals and woodworking, which members put to use making planters, troughs and benches on commission for the community.
They also offer travel training to help people learn how to read public transport timetable, how to plan the route to get to the bus stop that they need to go to, when to get off the bus and walk to where they need to go.
Cherry Orchard Garden Services open Monday to Friday from 8aam to 3pm, closing for Bank Holidays and over Christmas.
To find out more about their services call 01543 676 443 or email cogsgardening@btconnect.com
