THE well-being of adults at a project supporting homeless people in Hereford is not the only thing blossoming.

A derelict area at the rear of Bridge House on Belmont Road has been transformed into a smart garden area, featuring a vegetable patch and patio.

The work hasn’t been carried out by contractors or project staff, but the Bridge House referrals who came up with the idea.

“They decided to get together and carry out the work,” said Ben Taylor, senior project worker at Bridge House, which takes in homeless referrals with the aim of preparing them for independent living.

“This project has all been achieved by the residents’ enthusiasm with support from staff to use their time productively and produce something they can be proud of and maintain in the future.”

Residents can now use this area to socialise and relax as well as receive support from staff.

Bridge House is a nine-bedroomed home where homeless people can spend up to two years. It has operated from the city for more than 20 years.

By the time they leave, it is hoped the residents will be able to take on their own tenancy either in this county or further afield.

The project is overseen by Stonham Housing, a national project providing supported housing for vulnerable people.