Rising Stars is a weekly youth club for children with disabilities. They make use of the facilities at St John’s Welcome Centre, Abbey Hulton, but were restricted to indoor activities.

So together with fellow centre users Shelton Day Service, the two groups asked for funding from the Realise Foundation to build a garden on unsightly land at the back of the church. Once this was granted, the groups worked with other members of the community to design their dream garden, which then took three weeks to complete. It includes raised planters, disabled pathways, ramp access, a seating area, BBQ area and secure fencing.

The project helped them learn social skills, working with other people, and they plan to grow fruit and vegetables which will be used in the community café run by Shelton Day Service at the centre.

Martin Stephens, Vicar of St John's, said: “I’m delighted that all these members of the local community worked together to provide a place that can be enjoyed by everyone and has made the area more attractive.”

Scott Morgan, who is in Rising Stars, said: “I really like to go outside in the nice weather to get some fresh air but we couldn’t because of strangers and the main road. A garden at the back of the church will mean we can plant flowers and vegetables and watch how they grow.”

Mike Bridgewater, Rising Stars committee member, said: “This garden will give our members the opportunity to learn how to grow produce and learn about the environment. We will also be able to hold outdoor activities, both recreational and educational now in a safe and secure setting. Working together with Shelton Day Service has brought our groups closer together and opened up opportunities for future working together. We would like to thank Realise for making this possible.”

Christine Morton, from Learning Disability Services, said: “I am so pleased for everyone involved in the project. Everyone  has been totally committed to ensuring that the project was a success and it is a great asset for the community.  I know that the garden will be a real source of enjoyment as well as providing an opportunity for learning.”

Will Nixon, trustee of the Realise Foundation: “The garden has transformed a derelict piece of land into a space that can be enjoyed by everyone in the local community. I’m proud that Realise could play a part in helping local people to achieve this.”