An international speaker on workforce burnout, anxiety and stress is taking to the stage on the Tuesday of the Garden Centre Association’s (GCA) 2026 Conference at Carden Park Chester (January 27, 2026).

Kat Thorne, who is a teacher and consultant, is presenting to delegates at the GCA’s 60th anniversary year event on ‘one small habit change’ that can boost resilience and wellbeing.

Ben Harrison, GCA Chairman Elect and Operations Director of Haskins Garden Centres, says: “Presenter of Positive Habits Podcast and Founder of The Morning Game Changer, Kat will be talking about the greatest global pandemic of all time – burnout, anxiety and stress.

“These are at an all-time high worldwide but are particularly prevalent in the UK. In The Mental State of the World 2023 Report, the UK scored second worst out of 71 countries. As people-focused businesses, our teams are our most important asset. The better able individuals are to look after themselves, the better they perform in all areas of life. 

“Kat is a positive habits expert and her life story of workaholism, breakdown and burnout inspire global audiences to change. After losing everything in 2016, she had no choice but to start again – with one small habit change. She is going to share with all those that attend our 2026 Annual Conference her experiences and tips, so we can all benefit.”

A former Global Commercial Director & CEO, Kat now works with organisations, leaders and individuals around the world to create one small positive habit change that results in increased wellbeing and resilience.

GCA CEO, Peter Burks concludes: “I’m sure our delegates will really appreciate hearing about Kat’s one small positive habit change and that her presentation will inspire them. Increased wellbeing and resilience allow us all to have healthier, happier work and home lives. They also help boost performance in the workplace too. For every £1 invested in wellbeing, there is a £5 return, according to Deloitte in 2022.

“To find out more and to book tickets, please visit the conference pages in the members’ section of our website or go directly to https://gca.digitickets.co.uk/. For any further queries, please contact the dedicated conference email: conference@gca.org.uk. If non-members are interested in joining us to attend the event, please email info@gca.org.uk.”