Evening all, the following was written as an article for a hort magazine so apologies if you have seen it before, thought it appropriate to blog it now with Phil's epic journey just a few days away.
Do not read this it does not apply to you!
Perennial’s services team, now nine caseworkers and four debt advisors, have been wending their way around the highways and byways of England, Scotland and Wales for ten years now, helping horticulturists as they faced difficult times in their personal lives.
In that time we have helped thousands of men and women from across the range of horticultural trades; employers and employees, self employed and unemployed, all ages, and from a diverse range of backgrounds. There is no typical day for a caseworker and no typical client however there is one thing that all of the people we help have in common... they all thought that they would never need our help.
Many had heard of us, some had supported us and a few still do, Perennial is the charity that is there to help other horticulturists but you are never going to need us are you?
If you work in Horticulture you probably know someone who has received a service from us but they wouldn’t want you to know and we aren’t telling... so why would you think we help people like you?
So who do we help and in what circumstances? Some examples are:
Those who are long term sick and those faced with a sudden disability or critical illness as well as horticulturists returning to the workplace after a period of sickness. Importantly we help the bereaved following the death of a partner or family member.
We support those with the responsibility of caring for an elderly or sick relative and people with childcare issues particularly where flexible working results in reduced pay.
We are particularly aware of the difficulties faced by Single parents and the parents of children with additional needs.
In the current economic climate we are pleased to be by the side of those facing redundancy or reduced working hours and those contemplating retirement but fearful of the financial consequences.
We come to the aid of victims of natural disasters, fire, flood etc and those that face homelessness whatever the cause.
Increasing crucial in these difficult times, our debt advice team provide life changing support to those who are struggling with personal debt that is spiralling out of control.
This is not an exhaustive list and of course we hope that you are right and that you never need us, but isn’t it good to know that we are here.
Perennial’s services team can be contacted on 0845 230 1839 why don’t you put our number in your phone now, just in case.
Take a look at our Website www.perennial.org.uk perhaps you could support us and help ensure we can be there, whoever needs our help.
Comments
I don't mind saying that Perennial was there for me when I got into a bit of bother, and having someone to talk to who understands that horticulture is not like other professions and who gave good advice to help me in the future... well it was priceless.
Thanks Ben, have enjoyed watching you go from strength to strength in the industry. A future Perennial trustee maybe??!
Who knows what the future will bring? The only thing that is ever certain is that if someone doesn't have a today there is no future to go to... that's where Perennial helps so much.
Great reminder Lindsey of the important work you do - and for those who may have read this but not yet donated to Phil's imminent massive Mowerthon to raise funds for Perennial, maybe now is the time to donate.