Councillors roll up their sleeves to support garden transformation for young people at Sarum House
A once-overgrown outdoor space at Sarum House in Andover has been transformed into a vibrant, welcoming garden thanks to a £1,000 Councillor Community Grant from Test Valley Borough Council and hands-on support from local councillors.
Councillors Lisa Matthews and Alex Gillies, who both represent Winton Ward, visited Alabare’s Sarum House - home to young people in temporary accommodation - to help clear the ground and see the impact of the project first-hand.
The funding, awarded in June 2024, enabled Alabare to create a low-maintenance but high-impact garden space designed to foster connection, creativity, and calm. With careful planning, collaboration, and involvement from young people, staff, and local organisations, the project was completed last month. Councillors returned to see the finished garden in use and took part in a volunteering session, helping bring the space to life alongside the community it was created for.
Councillor Lisa Matthews said; “This is exactly the kind of project that shows what community grants are all about - bringing people together, creating positive spaces, and helping young people feel seen, supported, and proud of where they live. It was brilliant to get stuck in and see the transformation take shape.”
The new area includes solar lighting, bike storage, basketball hoops, planters, seating, and sheltered spots - giving residents a safe and inviting space to relax, play, and socialise. But the impact goes far beyond aesthetics. The garden offers a space for meaningful interaction, where residents can host friends and family, staff can hold reflective practice sessions, and professionals like counsellors or social workers can meet young people in a more relaxed setting. The area is also set to be used by Alabare’s Boots on the Ground team, who will offer bushcraft sessions, whittling workshops, and other outdoor activities.
Councillor Alex Gillies added; “The difference a garden like this can make to wellbeing, confidence, and connection is huge. We’re proud to have played a part in supporting this project - not just through funding but by being there, seeing how the young people and staff will benefit from this new space.”
Natalie Murchie, Service Manager at Alabaré's Sarum House said: "We're so grateful to Councillors Matthews and Gillies for their support, and our residents are really enjoying their new garden, as we see the summery weather arriving.
"It's making a huge difference to their wellbeing and gives us more safe, supportive spaces to offer vital help to young people at risk of homelessness and eventually into employment and independent living."
The project was developed following consultation with local residents and reflects a growing understanding of the importance of outdoor space in supported housing. By creating safe, engaging environments, projects like this help reduce isolation, support mental health, and contribute to long-term positive outcomes for vulnerable young people.