As we mark World Earth Day 2026, we’re reflecting on how far our Natural Affinity journey has come since our garden first appeared at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in 2023. What began as a beautiful exhibit has grown into a thriving, long‑term commitment to connecting people with nature through our Natural Affinity Community Project here in Kent.

For many of the people we support at our Pembury site in Tunbridge Wells, nature continues to play a transformative role in their wellbeing. Our stunning grounds offer a rich mix of outdoor experiences, from growing plants and caring for horses, donkeys and alpacas, to enjoying woodland walks, our adventure playground, and the warm welcome of the Bluebell Café.

We know that seven in ten autistic people experience challenges with mental health, and 95% have sensory processing differences. Gardening and nature‑based activities can be powerful tools for easing these pressures. They offer calm, connection, responsibility, and the chance to build confidence and new skills - all of which help people feel more grounded and more themselves.

Since launching the Natural Affinity Community Project, we’ve been building on the legacy of our partnership with Project Giving Back and Camellia Taylor, The Garden Taylor. Our aim is simple but ambitious: to expand opportunities for the people we support and our wider community to engage with nature, and to make the most of our extraordinary location in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the heart of Kent.

Our vision continues to grow, and in 2026 we are focused on developing:

• A vibrant outdoor experience for the people we support and the local community, centred on horticulture, animal care and meaningful time in nature.
• A welcoming space with activities for those attending our Day Opportunities, as well as friends and families of those who live on site.
• Educational workshops and Forest School programmes for visiting schools and community groups, helping young people learn through hands‑on exploration of woodland, wildlife and the natural world.

With your support, this vision is becoming a reality. Together, we can continue expanding opportunities, strengthening mental health, building independence, and empowering people to take steps toward employment — all while ensuring the long‑term sustainability of Aspens.

As Aspens CEO Robert Shanahan said when the project began, “With the Natural Affinity Community Project, we have a tremendous opportunity to deepen the impact we have for people with learning disabilities and autism.”

That commitment remains at the heart of everything we do. Our Tunbridge Wells site plays a unique role in this mission — a place where everyone can come to feel closer to nature, and where the legacy of our RHS Chelsea garden continues to inspire visitors year after year.

We’re incredibly grateful for the support we’ve already received, and as we celebrate World Earth Day 2026, we’re inviting supporters big and small to join us. Whether through sponsoring a key part of the project or making an individual gift, your contribution will help us nurture wellbeing, connection and opportunity for years to come.

If you’d like to learn more or get involved, please contact us at [email protected] and a member of our team will be in touch.

Make a donation to the appeal here.