Defence Gardens in Northern Ireland
DGS has a strong bond with Northern Ireland as it was at Brooke House Health and Wellbeing Centre, Co Fermanagh, that DGS service delivery first began at the beautiful and tranquil Colebrooke Walled Garden.
“We were privileged to be chosen as the pilot charity and we have worked together on clinical and vocational developments to the programme.” Director Brooke House, 2020
Colebrooke Walled Garden, Co Fermanagh
continues to lead DGS Hub programme design with client input. Dougal the Head Gardener and Anja who is an Eco-Therapist practice within a traditional large walled kitchen garden. Progression from the course is supported by an experienced veteran ensures each client has a clear progression plan. Opportunities range from volunteering to retraining and can lead to PT or FT employment or self-employment.
“The big part of this programme is it allows us the space for deeper connection. The course can also allow us the space to sit with ourselves and be safe and comfortable.” Veteran, Brooke House, 2024
Ashes to Gold, Co Londonderry are
the DGS Hub delivery partner in Coleraine, on a wonderful 10-acre site. The landscaped paths, a lake and forest as well as dedicated polytunnels provide every facility for a wide range of nature based therapy options.
Brett who runs the garden and Deborah who works with him on the DGS Programme look forward to welcoming you to Ashes.
“I had become isolated, and I found a lot of comfort in the garden…I was interested in the well-being aspect but I also wanted to go and meet other individuals who have suffered PTSD. I find it therapeutic to sit in a garden and speak to people, you are surrounded by people who are all equal.” Veteran, Ashes to Gold, 2024
Somme Nursing Home, Belfast remains a strong and passionate DGS Spoke garden. This garden is a project aimed at reducing isolation for the Armed Forces Community living in the local and surrounding area, helping them respond to isolation and loneliness, improve their mental health and wellbeing, develop new friendships and networks and have positive experiences.
“The garden and the structured activities gives me something to work towards and sence of purpose.” Veteran, Somme Nursing Home, 2025
DGS continue to research delivery sites for the 10-week Programme and Spoke gardens as well as delivering Cultivate and Connect Workshops at a range of locations across Northern Ireland, once confirmed, they will be added to this page of the website so please do check back with us.