30 Years of Recovery

Since its formation in 1994, Bridewell has become a force in social & therapeutic horticulture. Now we need your support for the future of the recovery service.

What Bridewell can do

"I never thought when I started at Bridewell I would ever be at this stage where I am now married, full time working and over a year sober! Bridewell will always be such a special place for me because you believed in me and helped me on my journey when I had lost all hope."

With 30 years of experience using gardening and working in nature to support people recovering from serious mental ill health, we know the power of Bridewell's Recovery Service. As we celebrate 30 years of creating an oasis for recovery, can you help secure our future?

Origins

The walled garden was built in the 1880s but fell into disrepair in the 1920s. Bridewell began life in 1994 creating a garden with and for people recovering from mental ill health.

The structures and features of the garden were ambitious and demonstrated the hope we have for the future, planting schemes and structures that take many years to mature. You can read more about Bridewell's history here.

Why do we need your help?

We urgently need to raise funds in our 30th anniversary year to address a shortfall in our funding and to address our crumbling infrastructure so that Bridewell is fit for purpose for the next 30 years. Our recovery service works! We’ve helped to transform so many lives, our approach is proven and evidence-based. Can you help us to secure Bridewell’s future for the next 30 years?

Funding shortfall

Our contract funding from the NHS covers under half of our annual costs meaning we have a shortfall.

Crumbling infrastructure

We need to address the temporary fixes in our infrastructure so that the site is fit for purpose.

Extend our reach

We need your support to continue and develop - to reach more people and provide more support with next steps.

Accessibility

We need to make sure the garden works for everyone and can thrive for the next 30 years.

Testimonials

The impact that Bridewell can have given time

My journey has been so difficult and Bridewell have made it so easy. I didn't have the time and space to find out who I was but since coming here I have.

Former Gardener

18 months

I loved meeting new people at Bridewell. Everyone encouraged one another and it was a lovely time to create some amazing art along with chatting about almost everything with everyone.