We were able to purchase basic tools to get started. A local joiner built raised beds from railway sleepers, lined them, + used linseed oil to protect them. Our Social Prescribing Link Worker and Community Plus had been waiting eagerly for this group to start and immediately referred some lovely people. We have kept busy and safe over the summer months manging to stay outside growing a range of Veg, herbs & flowers. It was so exciting when our 1st crops were ready, we cooked & shared meals with plenty for the group to take home. In May we started sowing wildflower seeds at the front of FOCAL along with established wildflowers. There are 2 truly special spots, one with rhubarb called Gordons Corner, and Peter’s place which has flowers with all year-round colour. Feedback from 2 members of our group P said. “I love coming here on Wednesdays” A said ‘At the start I was so anxious to attend, I pushed myself and was greeted with such lovely people and felt really welcome’

What we'll deliver:

• Double the growing space, therefore supporting a larger group of people,
• Growing and sharing what we grow with local groups and community
• Having a greenhouse will mean we are more sustainable, extend our capacity to grow more for longer capability
• Working with Partners delivering alternative sessions,

Why it's a great idea:

To help and support people who would like to connect with other people while spending time doing something they enjoy. We already have established friendships outside the project with people meeting socially, & helping each other with their own gardens. Most of the group walk there and back so they get some exercise, making new connections all the time. A couple have said that it gives them ‘a focus to their Wednesday. Additional planters, Greenhouse and storage, will bring additional benefits, increasing our group members, with all the positives that brings. At Growing FOCAL we have a green ethos. Planting wildflowers which supports our pollinators, encouraging people to grow their own vegetables, will help combat Climate Change in our own small way. "From a Small Seed Great Friendships and Change May Grow"

Steps to get it done:

• To develop our indoor group "Bee Creative" over the Autumn/Winter months,
• Double out growing space outside for the Spring/Summer Months

We want to encourage community gardens and planting wildflowers to help combat climate change, help wildlife and pollinators, and transform our own physical and mental wellbeing.