Planting seeds of independence

At Life Skills in North Parramatta, a flourishing garden is helping customers grow more than just fresh produce—it’s nurturing confidence, independence and everyday skills.

With support from Support Workers Betty and Kim, Life Skills participants Jack, Paul and Henry are actively involved in every part of the gardening project. From selecting seeds and soil during outings to Bunnings in Northcott’s accessible van, planting, watering, weeding and harvesting, the project is a hands-on way for customers to build important life skills.

Gardening is for everybody

Based out of the Merindah room, the garden is a regular activity that supports a wide range of outcomes for participants. Customers are developing financial skills by collecting and recycling bottles and cans to fund the purchase of more materials. They also gain experience in cooking and food preparation, exercise, and fine motor skills.

Learning about fresh produce and making a profit!

The group has successfully grown and sold a variety of fruit, vegetables and herbs, including green beans, cucumbers, blueberries, basil, and oregano—which they dry, jar and sell to Northcott staff. Highlights include making a chilli sauce from home-grown chillies to share on Harmony Day and creating yuzu lime tea from their own crop.

“The customers get excited by making and handling money,” says Kim. “Selling their produce to staff gives them a real sense of pride and purpose.”

At Northcott, we’re committed to supporting people with disability to build skills for everyday life. This garden project is just one of the many ways our Life Skills program empowers customers to turn their goals into achievements—one seed at a time.