LONDON, 19th August 2022
Meet Garrick, the latest recruit to our greenkeeping team at Richmond Park Golf Course.
His journey into greenkeeping started with Veterans’ Growth, a small charity based in East Sussex that provides Social and Therapeutic Horticulture to ex-armed forces personnel.
Garrick was referred to Veterans’ Growth by NHS London. He arrived for a 2-week residential course and within days he was able to think more clearly. He began to open up about his Military service and the impact it has on his day-to-day life.
The dedicated team at Veterans’ Growth worked with Garrick to find out where he saw his future. Garrick was keen to work in agriculture, but it didn’t fit with his family life. Jason Stevens, CEO of Veterans’ Growth and himself a veteran of 16 years in Army, had recently been introduced to Nick Brooks from Glendale Services. The two got talking about how Garrick might benefit from a work experience placement.
A few phone calls later and Garrick was offered a two-week placement at Richmond Park Golf Course. Jon Dummett, Head of Golf for Glendale explains:
“Having voluntary experience supporting a wellbeing project for the Metropolitan Police, I understand the importance of accessing quality help and support. After hearing from Jason and his incredible work with Veterans’ Growth, it was an easy decision to offer Garrick a work experience placement in our greenkeeping team.”
Jason Steven added: “The Veterans’ Growth team is delighted to see Garrick is doing so well, to the point where he has now been offered a full time position and is looking forward to starting a permanent role in a job he loves. The relationship between Glendale and Veterans’ Growth is new but I can see greenkeeping becoming a bigger part in supporting our veterans.”
For more information about Veterans’ Growth visit www.veteransgrowth.org
Glendale Golf recognises that colleagues like Garrick are the heartbeat of our business. Our WINning Formula helps make a difference for so many: our customers, teammates and local communities, which is why we welcome everyone and encourage laughter, gratitude, and hospitality. It’s good for our team, and it’s good for you.