About the Collective
We grow plants We help to grow people
Viewfield Garden Collective is a membership organisation that provides and promotes therapeutic gardening experiences for vulnerable and disadvantaged adults in Skye and Lochalsh.
We use horticulture, creative arts and the environment as a means to support and develop our volunteers and work to enable them to be better connected in the wider community and workplace. We run a large kitchen garden in Portree on the Isle of Skye that also acts as our social enterprise where we sell our garden produce to the local community.
Education
We aim to provide a supportive working environment to offer training and development in Horticulture for socially excluded individuals who may be experiencing mental health difficulties.
Citizenship and Community
We aim to promote citizenship and community development through actively restoring and maintaining the natural landscape, paths and community gardens for public use and enjoyment.
Health
We aim to better the mental and physical health of our volunteers, staff, trustees, and community by encouraging therapeutic gardening, social interaction, and physical exercise.
Environment
We aim to protect our environment through developing ecological and sustainable working practices, continued restoration and maintenance of green spaces and promotion of eco-consciousness. We also aim to become a leading organisation in our area as a champion for the environment and green health practice.
Professional Memberships
We are proud to be members of Social Farms and Gardens and Trellis.
So, who are we?
Originally established in 2006, our user-led community initiative has grown to include regular gardening sessions, open days, workshops, and community lunches. The garden comprises of three cultivated terraces producing fruit, vegetables, and flowers as well as two working polytunnels and an outdoor seating area. We offer a variety of educational and training opportunities including the Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society Grow and Learn awards that focus on individualised, person-centred learning and offer life-skills based education for all.
Viewfield Garden Collective is a UK charity relying on income from our social enterprises, generous public donations, and grant funding (please have a look at our funders page for details of our current and past funders).
