There’s something rather special about the space at Carey. Through our volunteer programme we have created a wonderful symbiotic relationship with our local community. The walled garden provides a welcome space, where the green-thumbed can come together to enjoy the environment, and make a real difference to the project.

There are now over 20 volunteers who regularly help out at the garden, with some travelling from as far away as Weymouth to come and dig in! Thank you to everyone who has contributed, we really appreciate all your hard work.

Copy of 20210605_carey_secret_garden_june-069.jpg — **Meet Mike**

To understand a little more about the Volunteer Programme at Carey we interviewed Mike, Volunteer Coordinator

Why do people volunteer at Carey?

There are many reasons our volunteers come to the garden; here are just a few:

A need for social interaction
A need for a simpler lifestyle
Getting back to basics
Enjoy outside work
Meeting other people
Wanting to learn new things
Don’t have a garden themselves

What do the volunteers do at Carey and do they need any prior experience?

The volunteers take on a whole variety of tasks in the garden. We normally do a group task in the morning such as weeding, and then we work through a list of tasks left for us by the head gardener. This can include digging up old plants, managing the composting, dead-heading plants, propagation, spraying the roses, mulching the wild meadow, picking the produce, watering, etc. It is very varied and we cater to all abilities. In fact, you do not need a background in horticulture at all.

What’s the best thing about running the Volunteer programme?

The sense of spirit de corps and a sense of making a real difference, it is great working outside with people who want to be there, we also have good fun and we work in a very inclusive environment. Of particular note at the moment is the fact that I really enjoy the interactions between our apprentice Mandy and the volunteers, she always passes her knowledge onto them. From creating a composting system to taking cuttings from pelargoniums, Mandy is an excellent teacher.

What are the biggest challenges in running the Volunteer programme?

Trying to vary the weekly biscuits.....everyone is getting bored with custard creams so I need to up my game!!

Anything else to add?

When applications are open come along, you will enjoy it and you will be made to feel welcome. Once you are in the garden it is a magical place to work, wherever you’re coming from, working in the garden gives you time for solitude and self-reflection, you will be amongst friends.

Other information: We can provide basic hot drinks and biscuits which are endless, we all have a coffee break together and we lunch together too which is fun. If you’re volunteering on a Thurs, Fri, or Sat the Secret Salt Pig will be open and you are welcome to purchase additional snacks and beverages at a discounted rate.

Testimonials

“In just 2 days at Carey’s Secret Garden, I’ve learnt more about true horticulture than in 20 years of trying to garden at home.

The team have been really welcoming & so generous with their knowledge & time. They’re clear on what they’d like you to help them with, let you do things you might know very little about & encourage you to enjoy rather than endure the time in the garden. Their passion for what can happen there is infectious.

I’ve come away every time I’ve been at Carey’s with my head bubbling over with what I’m going to do in my garden now I’ve seen it in action & wanting to come back to do, learn & enjoy more at Careys.” Anna

“I feel being in Carey’s Secret Garden always has a positive effect on me. Everyone was very welcoming and I was pleased to be able to help (even though I am a complete novice in terms of gardening).” Rosie

How to get involved?

We are extremely lucky to have been inundated with Volunteer Applications. We are currently closed to any ‘new recruits’ but we do have a waiting list if you’re interested in joining.

Digging in to help out!