One man’s path from policing to plants

After 15 years working in public services – mainly in policing and local government focusing on crime and domestic abuse policy – Chris Reynolds found himself needing a major life change.

“Supporting women through the criminal justice system was meaningful work,” says Chris. “But when my father passed away and I had two young kids to care for, I realised I needed something different: a career that offered more balance, purpose and time with family. My wife noticed how much I enjoyed being outside and suggested I consider horticulture as a career.”

I realised I needed something different: a career that offered more balance, purpose and time with family.

Finding comfort and purpose in gardening

Chris Reynolds won a Gold medal and RHS Career Changer of the Year at RHS Tatton Park Flower Show 2024 for The Safe Space Garden

“I wanted to own my time and link what I love with what I do,” says Chris. This fresh start allowed him to combine his love of the outdoors with meaningful work that supported his wellbeing.

His experience supporting victims of crime influences his garden designs. Chris is passionate about creating “safe space gardens” – healing outdoor environments that promote wellbeing and recovery. One of his show gardens, developed in collaboration with Victim Support, is planned for relocation to a therapy centre that supports trauma recovery. He explains, “Designing spaces that genuinely meet people’s needs and improve their lives is incredibly rewarding.”

“Planting is inherently hopeful – an act of looking forward,” says Chris. “For those who’ve experienced trauma, gardens can offer grounding and a sense of connection to something greater.”

Chris’s garden at RHS Flower Show Tatton Park reflected this through thoughtful design. “The pods encouraged connection between victims and those opposite them,” Chris explains. “While surrounding pillars created a sense of safety without complete isolation. The planting scheme used movement, sound and scent – such as swaying grasses and rosemary – to gently soothe the senses.”

Advice for career changers

For anyone considering a similar career change, Chris offers practical advice. He encourages others to follow their passion even if the direction isn’t fully clear at first, saying, “My interest came from garden design rather than horticulture itself. It’s okay to start with a general idea and let your passion evolve.”

Continuing education also played a key role in his journey. “I combined practical RHS classes with more traditional design courses. This balanced approach helped build my skills and confidence,” he reflects.

“Overcoming self-doubt is vital,” he adds. “It’s easy to feel unqualified, but the horticultural community is welcoming. Push through the fear and dive in.” Building a network by reaching out to professionals, colleges and RHS contacts was another important step. “Talk to schools, professionals and RHS contacts. They can open doors and provide guidance,” Chris advises.

He also emphasises the importance of patience: “Changing careers takes time. I spread courses and volunteering over a few years. Be patient and persistent.”

Designing gardens that heal

Today, Chris runs a garden design studio, Bridgemen Kent, juggling about 14 projects, mostly domestic gardens along with some community spaces in London. He aims to expand his work with charities and promote gardens that nurture mental health. “It’s about balancing the work that pays with projects that push the message I believe in,” he says.

Chris’s journey shows how horticulture can be much more than a career – it can be a source of healing, growth, and profound impact. “Changing careers after 15 years in a stable job wasn’t easy,” says Chris. “What started as a personal refuge in gardening has grown into a mission: to create outdoor spaces that heal, inspire and improve lives.”

Chris’s tips for changing careers into gardening and garden design

• Focus on your passion: “I started with an interest in garden design, not just growing plants. Understanding the space and the people using it is key to creating gardens that truly enhance lives.”
• Do your research: “I explored many options, including courses at Capel Manor, Westminster University, and the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). Taking night classes, weekend workshops, and practical courses helped me gain knowledge and skills.”
• Get hands-on experience: “Volunteering at flower shows such as RHS Chelsea Flower Show and RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival was inspiring and helped me build valuable connections. The industry is supportive, so don’t hesitate to seek out opportunities, even unpaid ones.”
• Be open to learning new skills: “I never expected to enjoy the technical side of design, like 3D modelling, but it’s become one of my favourite parts of the job.”

About the author - Charlotte Olver

Charlotte Olver is a garden writer who explores how gardening supports wellbeing. Blending science with storytelling, her work highlights nature’s role in healing and celebrates the garden as a place of restoration, resilience and belonging.

Useful resources for career changers in horticulture

• Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) – Courses, qualifications and volunteering opportunities: rhs.org.uk
• London College of Garden Design – Specialist garden design training: lcgd.co.uk
• Capel Manor College – Practical horticulture and landscaping courses: capelman.ac.uk
• Westminster University – Landscape architecture and design programs: westminster.ac.uk
• RHS Chelsea Flower Show and RHS Hampton Court Flower Show – Volunteer and get involved: rhs.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer/shows
• Victim Support – For those interested in therapeutic garden projects linked to trauma recovery: victimsupport.org.uk