Dorset Council support scheme helps man build confidence

A man with additional needs says he has grown in confidence after getting work experience as a gardener.

David has been working at Care Dorset in Blandford Forum through a work experience scheme set up by Dorset Council.

The authority's supported employment service, Pluss, assigned David to the care home, where he helps in the garden.

Tracey Spriggs, employment coach, said David had "completely changed".

She added when they first met, David "wouldn't talk to anybody" but being outside had helped his mental wellbeing.

"His communication has become absolutely fantastic and he talks to everybody."

David said: "I do weeding and get rid of the leaves by raking them up, so that it's proper soil again. The best bit is doing digging. Tracey helps me a lot, raking and making sure I am safe.

"It's good exercise and it really gets you fit," he added.

Susan Wells-Read, from Care Dorset, said she had also noticed a "big difference" in David since he started the gardening work.

She said: "He was so shy and quite nervous, but now he's not shy and tells me what we wants from me."

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