Are you familiar with the Lily Tomlin quote: “I always wondered why somebody doesn’t do something about that. Then I realised I was that somebody”? The VCFSE sector is driven by people who step forward and take action.
Like Su Harvey, Founder and CEO of The Red Shed Project in Stevenage, who recently retired after years of nurturing a garden and service for local people living with dementia and their carers.
The Impact of The Red Shed Project
Su’s vision, ambition, and tireless advocacy for those living with dementia and their carers brought The Red Shed garden to life. She has steered the group into a thriving charity, which gained charitable status in March 2023, and continues to make a profound impact on so many lives. Her unwavering commitment and passion have shaped not only the success of the project but also the lives of countless individuals.
From the very beginning, The Red Shed Project has been dedicated to improving the mental and physical well-being of people living with dementia, along with their carers and families. The team, mostly made up of volunteers, run weekly gardening clubs in their dementia-friendly, accessible garden, offering refreshments and gardening tasks that promote engagement and connection with others.
The Red Shed Project also hosts regular arts and crafts workshops, often collaborating with other local organisations to foster stronger social interaction and learning. Additionally, it hosts specialised workshops and social events for carers, designed to provide them with opportunities to relax, learn new skills, and connect with a supportive community.
Reflecting on Su’s impact on our local community, NH&SCVS Community Capacity Builder Andy Nazer says: "Su, we are truly honoured to have been part of your incredible journey. Aside from your work at The Red Shed, we shall miss your insight and contribution to the VCFSE sector locally. Your incredible work will live on and continue to inspire and uplift for years to come. Have a super retirement!”
NH&SCVS CEO Hannah Morgan-Gray echoes Andy’s sentiment: “It has been an absolute privilege to support Su and The Red Shed as one of our valued member organisations. I still remember my first visit to The Red Shed back in 2019, when I had the pleasure of meeting Su and her incredible team of volunteers. Witnessing first-hand the difference they made to the lives of people with dementia and their loved ones was truly inspiring. Su’s warmth, energy, and passion are infectious, and it’s been a joy to work alongside her over the years. We are so grateful for her dedication and the lasting impact she’s had on so many people. Thank you, Su, and the very best of luck with all your forthcoming adventures—you will be deeply missed.”
To learn more or get involved with The Red Shed Project, visit www.theredshed.garden.
To learn more about how NH&SCVS Membership could boost the impact of your group, see more online here.
