About me

Hi!

I’m the founder of gardening therapy organisation; Life at No.27, a passionate gardener, wellbeing therapist, children’s author of ‘YOU CAN grow your own food‘, magazine columnist and public speaker.

Through my passion and energetic enthusiasm, I aim to change the way allotments and growing your own are viewed. Showing that gardening can change your life in so many ways, at any age, both mentally and physically. Whilst keeping it simple, easy and more than anything fun.

I have trained in psychology, horticultural therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy. Now working within schools and the local community in South Wales, Oxfordshire and Northamptonshire, supporting those struggling with mental ill health and inspiring the next generation of gardeners. I am also currently developing and building my UK wide vision for Life at No.27 – creating bespoke allotment therapy sites to help change lives across the country, accessible through self referral, GP’s, psychiatrists and local councils. The first bespoke and unique allotment therapy site opened in June 2020.

I am part of Kitchen Garden magazine writing team, producing the Grow with Belle children’s column and a 3 page Wellbeing feature, focusing on varying topics such as medicinal plants and the history of horticultural therapy. I have appeared on BBC One and BBC Radio, delivered talks and workshops at RHS shows, BBC Gardeners’ World, Glee and many gardening clubs/associations. My writing and work has been featured in The Telegraph, Waitrose, Grow Your Own magazine, RHS online, Metro, ‘The Natural Health Service’ book, Vegetarian Living Magazine and BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine.

My first book ‘YOU CAN grow your own food’ was published in 2020, by HarperCollins, has has received 5 star reviews from both children’s and adults. The book was featured by the government Department for Education.

I am a patient adviser, champion and faculty member of the National Association of Primary Care (NAPC) and NHS.

As well as a qualified physical and mental health first aider, member of the National Autistic Society.