Youngsters Helped To Find Work In Herb Growing Project In Brentford

Leah McPherson, who previously worked for Ealing council, set up the project in March.

She said: "Trainees come to us need to complete 60 hours of volunteering then we assess whether they can become an apprentice and work 28 hours a week on minimum wage.

"We offer them a 12 month contract with one day a week at college, and if they don't want to do this then we help place them with other organisations like the National Trust."

For some of the volunteers, getting involved with the gardening project not only helps them learn new skills but it helps them stay out of trouble.

Wayne Forsyth, from Northolt said: "I just got to get off my estate because it's rough and if I stay there I get into trouble.

"Being able to come into Cultivate London and work and learn means I'm not fighting and getting angry. I've also been able to start growing herbs at home for my family and teaching them about horticulture."

The site grows herbs which are then sold on to local businesses including The Coach and Horses in Isleworth, who use their home grown mint in the bar and kitchen.

Dan Highfield, 24, Ealing another trainee volunteer said: "I knew I couldn't do a job where I was just stuck in an office. I like being outdoors and working with my hands. I like keeping busy and it would be good to eventually get paid for that.

I did too part time courses before this, and I also worked as a Sunday School Assistant but I just wanted to get back outside."

The project is looking for five more trainee volunteers. For more details contact Leah on 07956487257.