Leo plants the seeds for better mental health

A man housed by homeless organisation Derventio Housing Trust has been planting the seeds for better mental health through gardening and baking – and is now helping others to do the same.

Leo Webberley, from Heanor, has been living with the trust since 2024 and has blossomed from a shy teenager into a confident 20-year-old – all through growing things in the garden and cooking the veg he grows for fellow residents.

As well as providing accommodation to around 1,200 people a year who would otherwise be homeless, Derventio also runs projects such as Growing Lives in Ilkeston, which aims to boost confidence and get lives back on track through crafts, gardening, walks, a bike workshop and company.

Talking to mark ‘Wear it Green Day’, an annual part of Mental Health Awareness Week, Leo said: “Gardening releases good endorphins, routine and structure.

“When I garden my head goes into a different planet. It’s just relaxing and tranquil.

“I like seeing other participants getting stuck into gardening and seeing them smile.”