King Charles III’s gardeners at Highgrove, his royal residence in Gloucestershire, have left their jobs in droves due to low pay and high demands. Since 2022, 11 out of 12 gardeners have quit, with many citing poor working conditions as the reason.
The monarch regularly visits the gardens, inspecting them before instructing staff on what to do next. However, when some regulations were not implemented as desired, Charles III was disappointed. The gardeners also struggled to grow certain plants, such as delphiniums, which Charles III had expected to be readily available.
Low pay was a major concern, with wages close to the minimum wage in the country. In an effort to address staff shortages, Charles III suggested hiring refugees from Ukraine to help in the gardens.
Despite efforts by the Charles III Foundation to improve working conditions and salaries, concerns remain. The estate, which has nine bedrooms, is leased from the Duchy of Cornwall for £340,000 per year. Charles III also uses the property after being hospitalized for cancer treatment earlier this year.
The gardens attract 40,000 visitors annually and offer guided tours with the Charles III Foundation. However, a recent inspection found staff shortages and poor management practices, leading to recommendations for mental health support and salary reviews.
Source: https://fakti.bg/en/life/987475-gardeners-flee-the-royal-residence-highgrove-charles-iii-paid-little-and-was-capricious-video