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Perennial: Supporting people in horticulture across the UK

Perennial is the UK’s only charity dedicated to helping everyone who works in horticulture, and their families, when times get tough. Read more about the important work carried out by the charity and how you can help support them. - 22 August 2025

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The charity supporting all those working in horticulture

If you're passionate about gardening, you know the joy and tranquillity it brings. Yet, the physical demands and unforeseen challenges of working in the horticultural industry can be significant. That’s where Perennial, the UK’s only charity dedicated to helping people working in horticulture, steps in.

Who is Perennial?

Perennial, originally known as the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Society, has been a beacon of support for those in horticulture since its foundation in 1839.

Its mission is simple, yet of vital importance – to help all those who currently work with, or have worked with, plants, trees, flowers or grass when needed, through their free and confidential helpline and support services.

How Perennial Helps

The charity is there to help with the everyday challenges people face when it comes to their money, health, family and career, as well as providing support for life-changing events such as homelessness, redundancy, long-term ill health or bereavement.

Ultimately, the aim is for everyone in horticulture to live well today and plan for a better future. So, whether working or retired, people can turn to Perennial through their digital services, helpline or dedicated teams when they need a helping hand.

Ways Perennial Helps

Digital:perennial.org.uk

The sharing of valuable resources, access to online tools, expert advice and information to help with money, health, career and everyday life, any time it is needed.

Helpline: 0800 093 8543+

The friendly Helpline Team provides an immediate advice and information service which can be contacted by phone or via an online form. This helpline can also signpost people to specialist and targeted services who can offer longer term solutions.

Dedicated teams:

Experienced teams who can provide more tailored support to suit individual needs, as well as access to specialist services, whether that be for the short term or with a longer goal in mind.

Why people get in touch

The reasons people contact the charity are wide and varied. Here are a couple of stories to share:-

For 30+ years, Stephen dedicated his working life to gardening until he was diagnosed with cancer in his sixties. Undergoing treatment and unable to work, he had a real fear he might lose his home. A friend encouraged him to make a call to our helpline. This proved a huge turning point. His caseworker worked with him to ensure he received all the benefits he was entitled to, which meant he could afford to stay in his home and focus on getting better.

“My message to anyone in the industry, should they find themselves in a downward spiral, is to pick up the phone and call Perennial.” Stephen

Craig was 31 when he put his back out. Working in grounds maintenance for 10 years he had suffered from a bad back for as long as he could remember. Not being able to work was hard to accept, triggering anxiety and depression. He got in touch and explained that he’d been signed off work. He was able to access an initial physiotherapy assessment and referred for treatment based on his diagnosis. His back and frame of mind have improved since then.

“If you’re not yourself physically or mentally, reach out because you’re not alone. I should have got help years ago, but I know Perennial are always there for me and encourage others to get in touch too.” Craig

How you can get involved

Perennial is a cornerstone of support for the gardening community in the UK. It ensures that those who dedicate their lives to nurturing those all-important green spaces can receive the care and support they need in return.

As individual gardeners, members of garden clubs and/or societies, your support and involvement with Perennial can make a profound difference to the lives of fellow horticulturists.

Here’s some ideas of how you can help:

Events and meetings: Invite a Perennial representative to speak at your events, increasing awareness about the charity’s services. Perennial also offers garden talks, featuring an inspirational selection of professional horticulturists and experts. Your club or group will be provided with an entertaining and informative presentation on a chosen subject. 
Newsletters and social media: Share information about Perennial’s work in your newsletters and on social media platforms.
Fundraising: Host events such as garden tours or plant sales with proceeds going to Perennial.
Membership: Perennial offers a ‘Friends of Perennial’ scheme which permits entry for members and a guest into Perennial’s three gardens, along with other exclusive benefits.
Become a volunteer: Encourage members to volunteer their time and skills to support Perennial’s activities, from fundraising to working on plant creches at flower shows.