Alfie

Before joining The Trust, Alfie, aged 23 and from London, had faced multiple health issues and substance misuse challenges. He had been in and out of hospital due to his mental health since the age of 17. It impacted his education and meant he left college without the qualifications he wanted, making it difficult to secure stable employment.

“I had very little confidence and the challenges with my health meant I found it difficult to maintain friendships. I felt very low and isolated. It was hard to even think about what my future might be when I didn’t even have faith in my own abilities.”

A support worker at mental health charity MIND suggested Alfie apply for The King’s Trust Get Started in Conservation programme in 2024, after he’d enjoyed volunteering at a local nature reserve.

The Trust delivers Get Started programmes to young people currently out of work and education across the UK. The programmes offer young people the opportunity to build their confidence, develop the skills they need for work and to learn about new employment opportunities. There are almost a million 16-24-year-olds across the country in this situation.

“The programme was really hands on which was a great learning experience and opportunity to develop my skills in conservation. We got to learn about the local flora and fauna, built habitats, get involved with weeding and had the opportunity to make a space beautiful again.

“Completing the programme was a massive boost to my confidence, helped me build a routine and to make new friends. Little did I know it would lead to my involvement with The Trust’s Chelsea Flower Show project!”

After finishing the programme, Alfie’s youth worker told him about the opportunity to be involved in the Seeding Success show garden.

“I’ve been amazed by all the elements needed to produce the garden and really enjoyed learning from our designer Joe. I’ve met suppliers, taken part in creative activities to develop different elements and I’m excited to get involved in helping build the garden too in the coming weeks.

“Ultimately, being part of this project feels like a fresh start. It has ignited a spark in me and I’m feeling positive about my future again. It’s given me a goal that I’d like to achieve and opened a door to a whole new career path where I can be creative, get my hands dirty and make a difference.”