27th March 2026
Sanctuary Supported Living
Staff and residents are invited to take part in Sanctuary Supported Living’s 'Ready Steady Grow' from 30 March 2026
Sanctuary Supported Living’s much-loved Ready Steady Grow competition is officially back for 2026, bringing with it a brand-new main category, special spot-prizes, and more chances than ever for residents to make the most of their outdoor spaces.
Ready Steady Grow, run by Sanctuary’s resident engagement team, brings together staff and residents from across our supported living services and retirement communities to celebrate the joy of gardening, the benefits of being outside, and the positive impact that shared projects can have on mental wellbeing and community connection.
This year introduces an exciting new headline theme: the Growing Together Garden Challenge, services to transform their gardens however they choose, with an emphasis on teamwork and creativity. The challenge can include anything from colourful flowerbeds and wildlife areas to fruit and vegetable plots.
Alongside the main category, residents can also enter a series of spot-prize focus areas, giving even more opportunities to shine:
- Wildlife Welcome – celebrating gardens that help nature thrive
- Reuse and Renew – rewarding clever use of recycled or repurposed materials
- Champion Crops – recognising the best home-grown produce
- Tallest Sunflower – for the highest bloom measured from soil to tip
Every participant will receive a certificate of recognition to celebrate their involvement. The top entry in the public vote will receive a £200 gift card for the best garden transformation, with a £100 gift card presented to the Highly Commended Garden. In addition, each of the focus-area spot-prize winners will also receive a £100 gift card.
The gardening competition has long been a highlight for residents
Resident Engagement Officer, Amy Jenkins, said: “The gardening competition has long been a highlight for residents, offering an accessible and enjoyable way to support wellbeing, build confidence, and create positive community connections. Past competitions have seen impressive transformations, from wonderfully well-kept window boxes to colourful communal courtyards. It’s always inspiring to see what people can achieve when they come together.”
Residents and colleagues who would like to take part can register their entry via Pulse or by emailing readysteadygrow@sanctuary.co.uk. The closing date for entries is Monday 6 September.
For those who are new to gardening or looking for some inspiration, our Ready Steady Grow page is packed with useful resources. You’ll find a comprehensive information pack to get you started, as well as a garden planner to help you map out your space.
Sanctuary Supported Living provides accommodation with personalised care and support for homeless young people and adults, people with mental health needs and learning or physical disabilities, as well as retirement communities for those aged over 55 or who have long-term care needs. To find out more about living with us, find a service near you.
