Roots and Shoots offers horticultural and employability training that builds confidence, life skills and wellbeing through outdoor learning.
Roots & Shoots, Rochford
If you enjoy being outdoors, working with your hands or spending time in nature, Roots and Shoots could be a great fit for you.
Roots and Shoots is our horticultural training project based in Rochford, supporting autistic people and adults with learning disabilities through practical, outdoor learning. You will take part in hands-on activities in a calm and supportive environment, helping you to build confidence, creativity and independence at your own pace.
You will learn where food comes from by planting, growing and caring for fruits and vegetables. Along the way, you will also learn more about the natural environment and local wildlife. These activities help you build practical skills, develop a sense of routine and teamwork, and feel proud of what you have achieved.
If moving towards work is one of your goals, Roots and Shoots can support you with that too. Alongside horticultural training, you will receive structured employability support to help you build work skills, confidence and readiness for paid employment through positive, real-life experiences.
Spending time outdoors also brings real benefits for your mental and physical wellbeing. Being in nature can help reduce stress, lift your mood and support overall wellbeing, while gentle physical activity helps build strength, movement and confidence.
You will also have the opportunity to work towards ASDAN courses and qualifications, helping you recognise your progress and celebrate your personal development in a meaningful way.
If you would like to find out more about Roots and Shoots or have a chat about whether it might be right for you, please get in touch with us.
Resources
Ability Works programme schedule
DownloadFAQ
Roots & Shoots is a horticulture-based day support programme run by Hamelin at our horticulture garden site in Rochford. It offers meaningful outdoor activities to help adults with learning disabilities, autism, or additional support needs build confidence, practical skills, and wellbeing.
Roots & Shoots welcomes autistic adults and people with learning disabilities, autism, or additional support needs who benefit from structured, nature-focused activities and social connection.
Participants learn horticulture skills such as planting, growing and nurturing plants, working with garden tools, maintaining outdoor spaces, and understanding wildlife. Activities are adapted to individual goals and abilities.
Yes, we provide structured group sessions for social and practical skill-building, and 1-to-1 support for individuals needing tailored help.
Prices vary depending on the support level. There is a day rate for group participation and a 1-to-1 support rate based on individual needs. You’ll receive a personalised cost estimate after assessment.
Support can be funded through social care funding, direct payments, or privately/self-funded arrangements. Our team can help you explore the best funding option for you.
Yes. An initial assessment helps us understand your needs, goals, and any support requirements so we can tailor your programme effectively.
Yes, potential participants and their supporters are encouraged to book a visit or taster session to meet staff, see the garden, and understand what to expect.
Roots & Shoots is located at the Roots & Shoots horticulture garden, part of Hamelin’s Sutton Bridge Farm location in Rochford, Essex, SS4 1XS.
You can contact us for more information about referrals and support on 01277 653889
Get involved
We’re proud to work with a broad cross-section of our community; together improving the world for disabled and neurodiverse people. Our work is only possible thanks to individuals and businesses generously giving us their time, fundraising efforts and donations.
