The plan is to create a space where clients, volunteers and staff can meet, sit, talk and children can play safely.
There is a huge demand for green outdoor space and growing space for those who live in the city, and our garden can provide that for many of our clients. The garden is being developed for clients to use in whatever way they want – to meet, socialise, develop new skills and volunteer their gardening skills to grow flowers, fruit and vegetables. We are applying for funding to develop and support this project, but we also recycle, re-use and re-purpose wherever possible and we use environmentally-friendly materials in all we do.
Project Successes
This huge space was buried under weeds and brambles before and during lockdown, but over the past year a group of amazing and committed volunteers have cleared, dug, strimmed and planted. They have laid paths, built steps and created vegetable patches. They have dismantled, relocated and rebuilt a shed and have completely transformed the area. The volunteer group is growing steadily and currently meets twice a week. They encourage visitors to the garden when they are there, to meet on the new patio, relax or even join in the work!
Plans and hopes for the coming year
• Build a pond and develop the cooking space and stage
• Extend the existing patio area, install safety rails around the perimeter and build a gazebo to provide shade
• Access funding for and recruit a Garden Coordinator in order to increase client involvement and participation in planning future developments
