Meyers Estate Agents director recognised for “life changing” eco project
Claire Meyer, director of Meyers Estate Agents, has won a Sustainability Award from Successful Women in Business South West for her role in setting up the GAP Project in Dorchester in association with mental health charity Dorset Mind.
Claire, who founded the home-based estate agency Meyers Franchising with her husband Mark, was inspired to develop the community eco initiative to help those suffering with mental health issues.
She says: “Spending time in green spaces or bringing nature into everyday life can benefit both mental and physical well-being.
“The GAP Project offers outdoor opportunities to grow and tend four allotment plots and the trained staff and volunteers provide practical support to those referred to the project with mental health problems.
“We grow vegetables in raised beds and there is a polytunnel and an eco garden, which is all wheelchair and mobility access friendly. The aim is to improve the quality of life and support our participants, both young and old, to build confidence, self esteem and resilience, while connecting with nature and other people. There is something for everyone.”
Nicole McCormack, adult services manager at Dorset Mind, says: “Claire and Mark’s vision, enthusiasm and contribution to fundraising efforts for the GAP project, in combination with the structure Dorset Mind has in place to engage and support referrals, has made the project a reality.
“The result is a safe space for those with mental health problems who prefer less intensity than focused one-to-one or group sessions.
“As well as helping to reduce the stigma associated with mental health, the eco project is another tool to help with the day-to-day challenges people face. For some of our participants it has been life changing.”
Claire was eager to point out that although she was named as the winner of award, it was for the whole team that has set up and continues to work on the project.
She adds: “It’s been a massive community effort and we’ve welcomed support from volunteers, local companies our franchisees at Meyers and our partnership with Dorset Mind, who’s staff have bought into the project as much as we have.
“They’ve provided enthusiasm, funding and put the structure in place to realise our shared goals for the project.”
Meyers Estate Agents funds a project coordinator through Dorset Mind.
“This means any donations go directly to the project that we felt was important, so people can see how their money is used,” Claire says.
“There has been no doubt the past year has been tough, but even local schools have got involved by designing ‘positive pebbles’, each containing a positive message to put in the garden.
“It can take a lot to get someone back on track after suffering mental health issues, but sometimes it’s the small things that count, so it’s wonderful to be involved in a community project where everyone’s contribution can make such a difference.
“The award winning GAP Project in Dorchester is now a blueprint that we intend to offer to each of our nine Meyers franchisees across the south west, so they all have the chance to recreate their own eco projects within their local area in the near future.”