Thetford gardening project turning lives of addicts around

And one recovering addict, who traded crack pipes for hose pipes after sleeping rough for a year, has said he is finally proud of the man he has become.

David*, 39, has fought addiction for most of his adult life and spent a full year sleeping on the streets.

But a project which helps people who are struggling with substance abuse find green shoots in their road to recovery has now given him a sense of purpose and pride in himself.

The man sought support from substance abuse charity Change Grow Live, which referred him on to the Thetford Horticulture Industry Scheme (THIS).

The non-profit organisation employs workers like David to help transform the garden of vulnerable people who may not otherwise be able to keep on top of their borders and bushes.

David is one of a number of recovering addicts to make use of the scheme, which has recently received a £4,792 grant from CGL and also supports ex-offenders.

Georgina Keatley, the project's founder, said: "He started with us in December 22, his motivation was excellent and he was very keen to learn and work hard.

"He has worked on a number of social gardens, including laying a lawn for a woman who works as a carer and laying slabs to simplify the garden of an older customer who has limited mobility.

"He said that for the first time he feels 'proud of the man he has become'."

The difference made by the Thetford-based enterprise extends beyond its workers though.

Ms Keatley added: "The fact they are helping vulnerable people really gives them motivation and a sense of purpose."

"One woman we helped was a widow whose husband did all the gardening.

"It reached the point where she couldn't open her curtains because she just couldn't face seeing her garden in the state it had become.

"Now she can."

*David's name has been changed to protect his identity. No one pictured in this article has ever been addicted to drugs.