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Planters for Pathway Project – support for victims of Domestic Abuse

Published on: Published in: Club News
In September, Soroptimist International Lichfield and District Club, utilised the positive power of plants and nature, to show their support for victims of Domestic Abuse by providing large garden planters at the Women’s Refuge in Lichfield.

In order to show support for victims of Domestic Abuse, funds were raised through generous donations from several members of the local community – SI Lichfield club raised funds from an M & Co. Fashion show in July; the local Drama Organisation “Shakespeare in the Park” donated; Ex- President Avril Commons made a personal donation to mark the Club’s 21st Anniversary celebrations in support of the Project.

The 4 planters were made from recycled wood and constructed by ‘Better Pathways’, who support those with mental health issues by volunteering to make items such as these. Plants were donated by Planters Nursery and Lichfield Garden Centre, as well as club members who took cuttings from their own gardens.

Planter containing herbs for cooking and making tea
A very healthy herb planter

Residents’ reaction to the planters was very positive. Clearly visible from bedroom windows, the planters are filled with cheerful flowers attractive to pollinators and butterflies as well as including fresh herbs which can be used in cooking. One young resident came back from school and was keen to be involved in the planting and preparation – mixing the compost and planting the daffodils and spring bulbs. Another said they had worked with flowers before and talked to her child about ways they could use the herbs when they cooked together.

Planter containing violas
Voila Planter – After maintenance work in May 2020

The psychological benefits of gardening in improving mood, calming and reducing stress, give residents the opportunity to take their minds off previous negative situations and begin to think about moving forward in their lives. The Project was always designed for the residents to take over and be involved in the growing process themselves so garden trowels and watering cans have been donated as well.

Pathway Project works to support adults, young people and children, who are experiencing or affected by domestic abuse. Pathway aim to provide a range of high-quality services, meeting the needs of abused adults and children, in a caring environment.

Pathway Project Lichfield
24 hr helpline – 01543 676 800
Helpline Email – talktoeve.pathway@virgin.net (between the hours of 8.30 – 15:00)