Author: Dave Hardy

Krista has been involved with the garden since the early days in June, when the plot was still overgrown and full of potential. She arrives most weeks, ready to help with whatever needs doing. She has become one of the people who knows the plot best, and her presence brings steady energy and enthusiasm to the space

For Krista, the garden is not only a place to grow vegetables. It is a place where she can be herself, learn new skills and feel part of a community that values her contributions. She attends independently, which is an important part of her confidence and autonomy. The volunteers greet her by name, and she feels safe and welcomed every time she steps through the gate.

One of the most memorable moments in the garden so far was the day the group built the new raised beds. We had received recycled wood from a colleague, and the plan was to make beds that would help improve access for everyone. Krista jumped straight in, eager to help. She took measurements, held pieces in place and learned how the structures fitted together.

It feels good to be outside, surrounded by people who care about the same things.

When she picked up a power tool for the very first time, there was a moment of quiet pride. It was a simple action, but it represented something much bigger. It was confidence. It was trust. It was the feeling that she could do something new and succeed. The team around her celebrated that moment, not because the task was completed, but because she felt empowered.

Since then, Krista has been part of almost every stage of the garden’s growth. She waters the plants, helps with general maintenance and encourages others to join in. She has seen the space transform from an overgrown plot to a place filled with opportunity and connection. She has also become a natural guide for people who visit for the first time.

Krista says that she loves coming because it feels good to be outside, surrounded by people who care about the same things. She wants the garden to be a place where everyone feels included, and she often talks about what we can plant next season or how we can make the space even more welcoming.

Her story shows how powerful shared projects can be. With the right support, the right environment and the right opportunities, people can discover strengths they never realised they had. The garden has given Krista a place to grow, not only as a gardener, but as a person. And she brings that confidence back into the world beyond the allotment, which is exactly what this project is all about.

Every week, Barry arrives at the Edward Kemp Community Garden with a smile, ready to see what has changed since the last visit. He is one of the most committed people involved in the project, and he is often the first to greet volunteers, staff and the people we support. For Barry, the garden is more than a place to grow vegetables. It is a place to grow confidence, connection and a sense of belonging.

From the beginning, Barry made it clear that he wanted to be involved as much as possible. He enjoys being outdoors, meeting new people and being part of a community project that has a real purpose. The only difficulty is that many gardening tasks are harder to complete from a wheelchair. Uneven ground, low beds and limited access meant that he could join in socially, but he could not always participate in the practical tasks he was most interested in.

Despite this, Barry never missed a week. He helped where he could, offered encouragement to others, and brought humour and warmth to every visit. Volunteers often say that the garden feels different when he is there. You can feel the sense of teamwork and shared purpose.

“His determination inspired the next step in the development of the garden.”

Using recycled wood donated by a colleague, people we support and staff worked together to build a wheelchair accessible raised bed. Barry was involved from the very beginning. He chose the location, offered ideas and watched proudly as the structure began to take shape. The first time he was able to reach into the bed comfortably, without barriers or limitations, was an important moment for everyone.

Now Barry is beginning to take a more active role in growing and caring for the plants. It is still early days, and there is still a lot of work to do to improve access throughout the whole plot, but this small change has opened up a new chapter for him. It shows what is possible when we remove barriers and work together with people rather than around them.

Barry often says that what he loves most is the feeling of being part of something. Being outdoors. Sharing a laugh. Learning something new. And knowing that this garden will keep growing, just like the opportunities within it.

We’re delighted to share a heart-warming moment from The Creative Craft Show at Birmingham’s NEC, held this past March, one that offered a beautiful glimpse into what a better world truly looks like.

Sarah, who lives with a mild learning disability and autism, had her time to shine as she stepped confidently onto the catwalk to present her stunning “Coat of Many Colours.” In the weeks leading up to the event, her anticipation and happiness were contagious, and when the moment arrived, she was filled with joy.

Her coat was a dazzling, hand-stitched patchwork of vivid colours and thoughtful detail that captured the imagination of everyone watching. It wasn’t just a fashion statement; it was a powerful celebration of creativity, individuality, and belonging. Surrounded by fellow creatives from Quilt Stitch Social, Sarah lit up the runway, reminding us all that true beauty lies in diversity and self-expression.

“The best way to make dreams come true is to wake up and make space for everyone to dream.”

More than a personal achievement, Sarah’s appearance on the catwalk was a testament to what can be achieved when everyone is welcomed, supported, and encouraged to share their talents.

At Options, we strive to create a better world for people with disabilities. In a better world, these moments would not be the exception, but the everyday and thanks to events like this, that world feels one step closer. We’re incredibly proud of Sarah for embracing this opportunity and showcasing her passion. We look forward to seeing where her creativity takes her next!