We are developing a landscape & environment social enterprise. We have a good track record having transformed a derelict piece of land into a thriving, award winning, inclusive, community food growing project. Growing on this we already have offers of work from local schools, colleges, residents and social landlords.
We are also taking responsibility for the care of the 1 acre plot at St Barnabas, adjacent to our garden project, from the City Council. We have funding support from The Social Investment Business specifically for the legalities and contract for this. Social landlord, Eastlands Homes have helped us get transport. We now need good quality “commercial” tools and equipment to get us started and sustain our activity.
What we'll deliver:
- Provide one off and contract based landscape, estate and garden maintenance
- Develop structured training for volunteers some of which will be based around the St Barnabas grounds
Why it's a great idea:
Our community needs to look after its green spaces. Our Growing in the City project has identified that we live in an area of high unemployment and social isolation. Our social enterprise offers a practical way to tackle these issues. It’s about local people helping themselves and their community. This is grass roots solution created from inside the community to work with local people providing a local service that is needed. Our social enterprise will offer training, employment and improve the environment that we live in.
Steps to get it done:
- Purchase tools and equipment from appropriate suppliers
- Start delivering services to local parties and residents including work with Eastlands Homes
Our “Growing in the City” community garden was initiated by local people and made possible by seed funding and other support from:
• Resurrection & St Barnabas Church,
• Plunkett Foundation and Adrian Ashton,
• UnLtd,
• Adactus Housing
• Community Development Foundation
We have enthusiastic support and backing from many parties in progressing our plans and capacity to be ready for the next stage of development;
• Manchester City Council East Manchester Regeneration
• Eastlands Homes
• The Social Investment Business
• MACC
• Community Union
