PERENNIAL is the safety net for people in the horticulture industry, including forestry and arboriculture. As the effects of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continue to evolve for the industry, Perennial is urging anyone who is worried or has questions about how it will affect them or their family to get in touch.

The team’s clear message is ‘we’re in this together’ and that they are here for support.

Julia Hayne, director of services at Perennial, said: “We know people are worried. It’s only natural to be concerned about your own health, your ability to continue working and to support your family. We’re here to reassure, advise and help you through the coming weeks and months. We all need to work together on this. We are all facing unprecedented challenges as we adjust to new ways of working and the Perennial resolve is steadfast. We are determined to remain available and active for everyone we help.”

Perennial has a range of support services online and our advisers are available by phone, email or video call free of charge and in complete confidence. The online budgeting tool can be used to help understand finances and adjust to sudden changes in income and the online mental health network, in partnership with Big White Wall, can help everyone maintain their mental well-being.

The Perennial services team of professional, highly trained caseworkers and debt advisers are also available for individuals to get the personal support they need.

Its advisers can:

  • Help people understand and get access to government arrangements for financial support
  • Help people make arrangements to reduce or delay bill payments, including credit debts where necessary
  • Provide financial assistance to cover essential items, particularly food and heating.

Peter Newman, Perennial’s chief executive, said: “In these unprecedented circumstances, many people will be anxious about both the present and the future. For 180 years Perennial has stood alongside people in horticulture and our unswerving determination is to continue to be available to help people through these difficult days.”

In the last few weeks, Perennial’s whole workforce has responded to government guidance, working from home where possible, self-isolating where recommended and observing advice on hygiene and social distancing. The charity’s gardens at York Gate near Leeds and Fullers Mill near Bury St Edmunds will not now open as planned, and all volunteer activity has been suspended until further notice.

Peter Newman added: “The focus of the whole Perennial team is now on meeting the practical and social needs of people in horticulture, as the entire country faces up to the COVID-19 challenge, and its aftermath.”

If you have any concerns about how COVID-19 will affect you or your family, don’t hesitate to get in touch 0800 093 8543 or visit www.perennial.org.uk/coronavirus for further information.