The team at Grow Ltd said they have been proudly reflecting on “a truly remarkable 2025”.
The past year was “has been “full of growth, community engagement, and exciting new opportunities for our Crew, volunteers, supporters and partners,” said the charity.
2026 is looking set to be even better, it said!
2025 highlights
“2025 was a year of meaningful progress and community celebration for Grow,” explained a spokesperson for the charity.
Some of this progress was focused on its expanding the existing facilities at its headquarters – which continue to benefit both the crew and visitors.
“We were delighted to expand and activate our new retail space, The Old Potting Shed — officially opened in early December — providing an inspiring environment where handcrafted goods, garden products and Crew-made items can be showcased and sold to the public,” said the spokesperson. “This new shop builds on our previous retail outlet and offers fresh opportunities for our Crew to learn customer service, craft skills, and retail-focused confidence.
“Throughout the year our Training Café continued to thrive as a training hub, welcoming visitors from across the island and providing real-world hospitality experience for our Crew. Our annual Christmas Fayre once again brought the community together for festive fun, fundraising and celebration.
“We’ve also maintained a vibrant Vinery and horticulture programme, with seasonal plant sales and Christmas tree offerings that not only exceeded expectations but helped raise vital income for ongoing training and activities.”
All of this progress feeds into Grow’s wider purpose with the charity centre confirmed as a “valued Community Hub”.
Throughout 2025 it hosted partner charities and fostered collaboration across the sector.
“A testament to our vision of being a community-centred charity with impact beyond our own walls,” said Grow’s spokesperson.
Challenges
Like many charities in Guernsey, one of Grow’s ongoing challenges during 2025 and into 2026 remains meeting rising operational costs.
“Annual operating costs remain significant, and although we are fortunate to receive core support through government funding and a variety of earned income streams, continued fundraising, community support and corporate partnership are crucial,” said the charity.
Another key challenge for Grow was building and sustaining its strong volunteer base.
“As our services, shop, café and community activities continue to expand, so does the need for reliable volunteers to support our Crew, assist with events, and contribute to the daily running of the site,” said the spokesperson.
“Recruiting, training and retaining volunteers in a small island community requires ongoing effort, and we remain focused on creating clear, meaningful opportunities that inspire people to get involved.
“Balancing sustainable income generation, maintaining high-quality training, and strengthening our volunteer network — while keeping our services accessible — has taken dedication, creativity and community spirit throughout the year.”
2026 wish list
Looking ahead to 2026, Grow’s ambitions are clear said the charity.
It wants to:
- Expand vocational training opportunities — broadening programmes and helping Crew members build skills that support independence and future employment
- Grow charitable partnerships — deepening collaboration with local organisations within the Community Hub and beyond, creating shared learning and support models
- Develop income-generating activities — continuing to innovate in ways that sustain programmes long-term, including enhanced horticulture and workshop products, expanded café offerings and creative retail developments
- Strengthen community engagement — with events, volunteer initiatives and supporter campaigns that help more islanders connect with Grow’s mission.
“Grow Ltd remains committed to empowering adults with learning disabilities and difficulties to develop confidence, skills, and meaningful connections within our community,” said the charity.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to every supporter, volunteer, partner and Crew member for making 2025 a year to remember — and we look forward with optimism to an even brighter 2026.”