New Food Bank Garden

One of our steering group members, Niru, had training in permaculture. Permaculture is an ecological design philosophy that creates sustainable, self-sufficient human habitats and agricultural systems, by observing and mimicking natural ecosystems, such as forests and meadows, to produce resilient spaces that require minimal maintenance.

We asked Niru to help us design a new garden space in front of our foodbank from a space which was derelict and covered in weeds and boxes, to something that would provide a better experience for our guests waiting for their emergency parcels.

Niru delivered workshops in the garden steering group and with our staff team, putting these ideas into a plan for the front garden. With the help of our volunteers, she led the transformation of that space to the beautiful, thriving garden it is today.

Youth workshops, Learning sessions, and events

Our garden steering group championed supporting young people into the garden and running learning sessions and training. We used this as inspiration to hire a Learning and Outreach Officer who has been delivering workshops to children, young people and SEND students.

Our steering group have also supported us to lead summer and winter parties in the garden, with over 200 local community members coming to create art, see local artists, have fun, and admire our garden space.

Developing Accessibility & Inclusion

Our garden team created an accessibility survey for residents, guests, and volunteers to complete and suggested actions to make the space more accessible and inclusive. We’ve implemented changes to our space, such as new ramps, handrails and lighting. The steering group also created fun informational and welcoming signs, to show that the garden is for everyone and that children and young people are welcome.