Ambassador expands prison rehabilitation programme in Leeds
Yorkshire social entrepreneur Gary Rockcliffe, who brings lived experience of the criminal justice system, is leading the expansion of a pioneering prison rehabilitation programme across Yorkshire and surrounding regions.
Backed by Entrepreneurs Unlocked, Gary’s social enterprise, Seed Harmony CIC, is bringing its unique blend of horticulture, sustainability, and creative workshops to prisons throughout the region.
Drawing on his personal experience with the justice system, Gary helps people in custody and on release to build confidence, develop new skills, and reconnect with meaningful opportunities; truly “cultivating change one seed at a time.”
Gary Rockcliffe said: “When I was in prison, I never imagined I’d one day return to deliver workshops and support others. Horticulture creates calm and space to think. If we can plant even a small seed of hope, that can grow into something life-changing.”
Seed Harmony’s workshops are already running successfully at HMP Wealstun, HMP Doncaster and HMP Dovegate, with visits planned to HMP Leeds, HMP Fosse Way and HMP Ashfield in the coming weeks.
Additional to this, Seed Harmony has delivered workshops to Yorkshire Growth Activity Hubs and is also collaborating with Practice Plus.
During the two-hour workshops, small groups create eco-friendly seed pods using clay, compost and wildflower seeds. Once dried, the pods can be planted in prison gardens or community spaces, creating something positive and lasting from a simple, calming activity.
Officers at HMP Wealstun, at Thorp Arch, reported improved behaviour and engagement, while participants described the workshops as relaxing, confidence-boosting and particularly helpful for those with neurodiverse needs.
As an Ambassador for Entrepreneurs Unlocked, Gary not only promotes the Social Enterprise’s work but has also received structured mentoring support to grow Seed Harmony CIC into a sustainable enterprise.
David Morgan, Founder of Entrepreneurs Unlocked, said: “Gary represents exactly why Entrepreneurs Unlocked exists. Talent and potential are everywhere; opportunity is not.
"By backing lived experience entrepreneurs like Gary, we’re not only helping to build viable social enterprises, but we’re also helping to reshape the narrative around rehabilitation in Yorkshire and beyond.”
Entrepreneurs Unlocked continues to support Seed Harmony’s expansion as part of its mission to back lived experience entrepreneurs creating systemic change.
For more information about Seed Harmony please visit: https://seedharmony.co.uk
For more information about Entrepreneurs Unlocked please visit: https://entrepreneursunlocked.org/