Thrive, Reading

What we do

Thrive is a “gardening for health” charity that helps to improve people's physical and mental health through gardening and horticulture.

At its centre in Beech Hill, just outside Reading, Thrive offers calm, safe spaces for people to connect with nature and with others, through group gardening sessions facilitated by a trained practitioner. This practice is referred to as Social and Therapeutic Horticulture (STH).

The way in which Thrive practitioners support each individual very much depends on the individual’s specific needs. Practitioners may be supporting someone who has just had a stroke to realise their potential through using adaptive tools; supporting someone with autism to communicate and build friendships; or providing support through Thrive’s Get Gardening resources to help reduce feelings of low mood, isolation and loneliness

Sessions

Thrive currently runs general sessions which are chargeable but are generally funded by Adult Social Care, and Life Changers, a free programme for those living with a life-changing illness or injury. Thrive also runs a holiday club for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Client gardeners may be referred to Thrive by social prescribers or other professionals, or enquire themselves or through family members. Thrive holds open days and plant sales, providing opportunities to visit the garden.

Join us

For further information, see the Thrive website, email Thrive Reading: trunkwell@thrive.org.uk or ring 0118 988 4844.

Note, Thrive is closed on 1st September, 2nd October and from 19th December to 5th January 2026.