Tucked away in a peaceful green space just outside Dorchester, The GAP Project is quietly changing lives—one garden bed at a time.
GAP stands for Gardens and People, and that’s exactly what this unique community project is all about. We create therapeutic garden spaces for local charities, organisations, and groups to use as calm, nurturing environments for their service users. These aren’t just allotments or plots of land—they’re safe spaces where people can reconnect with nature, with others, and with themselves.
A Safe Space to Grow
The GAP Project has been designed with wellbeing at its core. Each group that uses the site has access to their own raised bed, alongside a shared polytunnel, sensory herb garden, compost toilet, communal tool shed, and even an office space for sessions or admin. It’s a space that has been carefully thought out to be welcoming, accessible, and peaceful.
We work closely with local organisations supporting mental health, recovery, disability, and isolation—offering their clients a chance to engage with the outdoors, learn new skills, and find community. Sessions are supported by professionals, volunteers, or support workers, and everyone takes ownership of their own area, helping to build confidence and purpose in a gentle, empowering way.
The Impact
Whether it’s planting seeds, sharing a cup of tea, or simply sitting quietly in the fresh air, the impact of this space is hard to measure—but impossible to miss.
For many who come to The GAP Project, it’s the only place they feel calm. It’s where they smile more, talk more, and start to believe in themselves again. The garden gives people something to care for—and in return, it gives them a sense of belonging.
Supported by Community
We’re incredibly grateful for the local support that keeps The GAP Project thriving. One of our proud sponsors is Max 25 Estate Agency, a community-focused business that shares our values of connection, care, and impact.
The founder of Max 25, Claire Meyer, is also one of the founders and trustee of The GAP Project, working alongside fellow trustees David Taylor and Patrick Craddock, who each bring their own invaluable experience and commitment. Claire’s passion for supporting people through change—whether that’s moving house or moving forward in life—is at the heart of everything we do. Together, the trustees share a common goal: to create a safe, inclusive space where people and communities can grow.
How You Can Get Involved
The GAP Project is here for charities, organisations, and groups looking for a safe, green space to use regularly with the people they support. If that sounds like you—or if you’d like to get involved as a volunteer or supporter—we’d love to hear from you.
Because when people are given space to grow, amazing things happen. 🌿
