A once in a lifetime opportunity!

Angela McElroy, client at Watford New Hope Trust (WNHT)
Angela got involved with WNHT in December 2009. Since then, she's made huge steps towards beating her alcohol problems and has gained a qualification in food hygiene. Angela is now working towards acquiring a woodwork qualification and has used her skills to help build a support structure for the spinal feature in the Places of Change garden.

About me:
I was working in a care home for the elderly. I was having problems with my landlord. I was burgled and then my landlord evicted me. I had no where to live. It was a stressful time. I’d had drink issues in the past and with all the stress, I started drinking again. I came to Watford new Hope Trust in December 2009 and I’ve not had a drink since before Christmas.



What activities have you been involved with during your time with Watford New Hope Trust?
I've been working at the furniture recycling project, attending a games club and art and cookery workshops. I’ve taken a life skills course and done a basic food hygiene certificate. I have just started a therapy programme working with horses.

What is your involvement in the Chelsea Flower Show? What have been the highlights?
Our team of four from Watford New Hope Trust is working on building a support structure for the spinal feature in the garden. Working together in a team has been one of the highlights for me so far.

I’m also able to gain accreditation towards a woodwork qualification through working on the project.

What does being involved in the Chelsea Flower Show mean to you.  How has it changed your outlook and approach to life?
It’s an amazing experience, a once in a lifetime opportunity. I find it very therapeutic. I’ve never worked on such a huge project. It’s great that we’ve been given the chance to prove ourselves.

What are your plans for the future?
I’m keen to continue to develop my woodwork skills but I would like to work with people with dementia in the future.

Do you have any messages for people who might be thinking about getting involved in the Chelsea Flower Show in the future?
It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity – grab it and make the best of it.