Give the gift of support this winter

For those professionals maintaining our green spaces, these are challenging times. Economic pressures, rising fuel and equipment costs, and tight profit margins are hitting the industry hard. In 2023, the demand for support from Perennial - the industry charity dedicated to helping those in the horticultural and groundskeeping professions - rose by a significant 17%. In 2024, we’re already seeing a further 15% increase.

The physical and emotional demands of these roles are tough enough, but delays in accessing healthcare and other services are making it even harder for many. Long hours, often spent working in isolation and in all weathers, can leave people feeling cut off. Unlike office-based jobs, those in horticulture don’t always have the social support networks that make a big difference to overall wellbeing.

On top of this, the unpredictability of the industry - with factors like weather and market conditions often beyond anyone’s control - adds to the stress. Despite the beautiful and well-maintained spaces they help to create, those working in the industry are frequently behind the scenes, unrecognised and many are self-employed or on short-term contracts. When things go wrong, this leaves them vulnerable.

This is where Perennial steps in. Perennial has been there to offer help, advice and support to people in the industry for over 185 years. The personal assistance we provide helps individuals feel heard, empowered and ready to move forward. However, with public services stretched, our team is handling increasingly complex cases, and we can’t do it alone.

We are asking you, as part of the community, to consider donating. Even a small monthly donation of just £2 can make a significant difference. Life is unpredictable, and anyone in the industry could find themselves in need of support. When that happens, Perennial is here to offer a lifeline - not just during times of crisis, but throughout their working lives.

How your donation can help

Even a small donation can make a real difference. Here’s how your contribution could help:

• £25: Provides advice and information from our helpline or free legal advice for people experiencing bereavement, disability, relationship challenges, or work-related issues.
• £50–£100: Can provide food for a family facing difficulties due to the cost-of-living crisis, homelessness or ill health.
• £100: Builds essential life skills, such as budgeting, helping a young person working in groundskeeping live independently.
• £1,000: Provides 30 people facing homelessness with free legal advice.

Donate today

Why we need your help

Whilst these are rewarding careers, they are also physically demanding. They require hard, physical work, often in isolation and many professionals are self-employed or work for small businesses with little financial security. When unexpected challenges arise, such as illness, injury, or financial difficulties, many in our community are left without the support they need. This is why Perennial’s work is so vital. We provide tailored assistance to help people overcome difficulties and lead successful, fulfilling lives.

As the demand for our services grows, we need your help to ensure that no one in the industry is left without support. Whether you make a one-off donation or spread your contribution over the year, your generosity will have a real impact on the lives of all industry professionals.

From everyone at Perennial, we thank you for your support.


If you, or someone you know, needs advice, information, or support with a problem – no matter how small – before it becomes a crisis, we’re here to help. Visit our website to complete our online contact form or call our free helpline on 0800 093 8543.