Business Details
Solstice Nurseries | Expert Plant Nursery in Aberdeen
At Solstice Nurseries, we are dedicated to 'Growing People and Plants' through our unique social enterprise model. Based in Drumduan Walled Garden near Aberdeen, we combine horticultural expertise with mental health support to create a transformative workplace for individuals recovering from mental illness. Our team, with extensive experience in both horticulture and mental health sectors, provides hands-on training in plant care, nursery operations, and employability skills.We collaborate with Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire councils to offer structured referral programs, ensuring participants receive tailored support. Our 13-week trial placements include workshops on health and safety, first aid, and job-seeking skills, alongside social activities to foster community. By blending plant cultivation with personal development, we empower participants to rebuild confidence and transition toward sustainable employment.
Services
Plant nursery
Horticulture training
Mental health support
Employability workshops
Wholesale plant sales
Work experience programs
Social activity events
Recovery Star reviews
Manual handling training
Community partnerships
Highlights and features
- We combine horticultural expertise with mental health sector experience.
- Our programs are endorsed by Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire councils.
- We offer structured 13-week placements with regular progress reviews.
- Participants gain practical skills in plant care and nursery operations.
- We provide tailored workshops on employability and job-seeking techniques.
What people say
Supportive environment
Valuable skills
Confidence building
Structured program
Expert staff
Services
Horticulture training
Our horticulture training program teaches participants plant identification, propagation, and nursery operations. Participants gain hands-on experience in weeding, potting, and preparing plants for wholesale markets. This structured program builds confidence and technical skills in a supportive environment.
Mental health support
We provide tailored mental health support through Recovery Star reviews and mindfulness sessions. Staff offer guidance on managing mental health and healthy lifestyles. This holistic approach integrates wellbeing support with vocational training.
Employability workshops
Workshops cover CV preparation, interview techniques, and job application processes. Participants develop timekeeping, teamwork, and stress management skills. These sessions prepare individuals for sustainable employment transitions.
Wholesale plant sales
We supply quality shrubs, perennials, and alpine plants at competitive wholesale prices. Our diverse plant range caters to trade customers and landscapers. Seasonal availability ensures fresh stock for commercial projects.
Work experience programs
Structured 13-week placements include nursery operations and retail selling opportunities. Participants attend two days weekly with regular progress reviews. The program focuses on building workplace confidence and practical skills.
Questions
What services does Solstice Nurseries offer?
We provide horticultural training, mental health support, employability workshops, and wholesale plant sales for individuals recovering from mental illness.
How can I refer someone to your program?
Referrals from Aberdeen City or Aberdeenshire residents require professional endorsement. Contact us directly for self-referral options with supporting references.
What training programs are available?
Our 13-week program includes plant care, nursery operations, health and safety certifications, and job-seeking skills workshops with regular progress reviews.
Do you offer public plant sales?
We primarily serve trade customers but welcome public visits by appointment to purchase quality shrubs and perennials.
What mental health support do you provide?
We offer Recovery Star reviews, mindfulness sessions, and personalized wellbeing support integrated with vocational training activities.
Reviews (2)
Gordon Hendry
May 23, 2017
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Healthy good quality plants. Always ready to give good advice, information, and ideas on plant selection.
Donald Robertson
Mar 02, 2017
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Big thanks to everyone at Solstice for all the support and advice over the last few months, I have learned a lot in the time I was working there with you and will miss being there with you all. Keep up the good work and hope to catch up with you all again at some time in the future. All the best, Donald
