PROJECT REVIEW: Community Payback delivering results to rural communities

TEAMS of supervised offenders have been working in the 14 acre gardens at Launde Abbey, a residential retreat house on the rural border between Leicestershire and Rutland.

For the last 18 months the men and women on Probation have undertaken ground clearance work and general gardening in the grounds of the Tudor house that dates mainly to the 16th century.

There is also a 13th century chapel, which was part of the original Augustinian Priory Church. Warden Tim Blewett, explained that Launde Abbey promotes itself for people of faith and for those who do not follow religious teachings, but are seeking a quiet place for reflection to find new purpose in their lives.

Tim Blewett added:

The work undertaken is of real benefit to Launde Abbey and our community is delighted to be able to support the work of the Probation Service, and to help individuals to feel valued again by society and reach their true potential as individuals.

Every year up to 20,000 people visit Launde Abbey either as residential guests or as day visitors.