How Perennial supports the flower industry
Florist Trade Magazine has been a supporter of the horticultural charity Perennial for years ... indeed turns out we have a historical connection that goes back to the 1940's!! But do you know what Perennial does ... have you ever needed help yourself and are there ways you could support them to help others. Kate Cooney, Corporate Partnership Manager, explains what the charity does and how you can get involved.
Before I joined Perennial, I thought, like many of the flower buying public, floristry is a wonderful profession, full of creativity and beautiful flowers. Providing a service to people at some of the most important days of their lives, literally births, deaths and marriages, providing fabulous gifts of flowers, blooms, sometimes unexpected, sometimes long awaited … and all of that remains.
What I didn’t realise was that behind the beauty of the blooms, professional florists often face financial, physical, and mental challenges that are relatively unique to their profession.
In addition, there are issues that sadly can affect us all. I often equate some difficulties that people face to those of the royal family. Sadly, no matter who we are, no one is immune from potential issues such as life changing illnesses, accidents, breakdowns of relationships and bereavement. That’s where Perennial, formerly known as the Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent Society (GRBS), steps in.
Established in 1839, the UK’s only charity dedicated to supporting people in, or retired from horticulture and thier families, Perennial provides vital services to florists, garden designers, growers, and landscapers - offering a lifeline when times are tough.
How Perennial Supports Florists
1. Financial Assistance
Running a floristry business comes with fluctuating incomes, especially during seasonal highs and lows. Unexpected expenses or a sudden loss of income can create financial hardship. Perennial offers tailored budgetary advice and tools helping florists manage through difficult times.
2. Mental Health & Wellbeing Support
Floristry is a demanding industry, with long hours, physically intense work, and emotional pressure to meet customer expectations. Perennial provides free and confidential mental health support, offering resources to help florists manage stress, anxiety, and work-life balance.
3. Practical Advice & Training
Whether you’re a self-employed florist or part of a larger team, Perennial offers guidance on employment rights and training opportunities. Our team of case workers can help florists navigate financial planning, career development, and even retirement preparation.
4. Crisis Support
Life’s unexpected challenges - such as illness, bereavement, or redundancy - can have a profound impact on florists. Perennial steps in with immediate practical and emotional support, ensuring that those in need don’t have to face difficulties alone.
How the flower industry can support Perennial
While Perennial is always ready to support florists, we receive no government support and rely on donations, fundraising, and industry involvement to continue our work.
Here’s how florists can give a little back:
1. Become a Perennial Partner
Florists and suppliers can join Perennial’s network of supporters by becoming corporate partners or signing up for regular donations. Even small contributions can make a big difference in helping fellow florists and horticulturists in need. Simply click this link and choose the package that works for you.
2. Fundraising Events
From workshops, raffles and bouquet sales, florists can organise fundraising events in their shops or online. Hosting a charity floral design evening or donating a portion of sales from a seasonal arrangement can raise awareness and funds for Perennial’s work.
3. Spread Awareness
Many florists may not even know Perennial exists. Simply sharing the charity’s resources on social media, in newsletters, or by word of mouth can help ensure more industry professionals receive the support they need.
4. Volunteer Your Time
Perennial provides various volunteering opportunities for the floristry community. These vary considerably to helping at Chelsea through to working alongside the Perennial team on a trade stand. Offering a helping hand to fellow florists aligns perfectly with Perennial’s mission.
A Community That Cares
Florists bring beauty and joy into people’s lives every day, but they too deserve support when facing difficulties. Perennial ensures that no one in the industry must struggle alone. By both giving and receiving help, florists can help build a stronger, more supportive community—where creativity flourishes and no one is left behind.
To learn more or seek assistance, visit www.perennial.org.uk
