To create an outside gym, engaging local residents into a series of healthier lifestyle choices including after school activities on how to grow food, cook healthy food and take daily exercise. Over the past two years the resident led Unique Roots initiative has developed out of an Asset Based Community Development approach and has helped to connect the skills, knowledge, talents and resources within the Valley Park area with the aim of supporting a diverse range of community driven initiatives that aim to improve and strengthen local families. An edible garden has been developed and residents are working together to grow food. The work has brought together residents and a range of stakeholders including the Acorn 2 Oaks which manages the nursery and the Peppermint Centre which is adjacent to the identified space. Social housing landlords Viridian, Hyde and Croydon Churches Housing Association manage the properties on the estate and the GP surgery all make referrals to the project.

What we'll deliver:

• Provide workshops for free to the community
• Up cycling unwanted items and fallen trees
• Create an outside gym
• Plant trees, food, flowers and seeds

Why it's a great idea:

The area is a very built up settling with limited green spaces and absolutely no opportunities to get involved in gardening or outside health and wellbeing projects. The residents have no space to connect with their neighbours and no safe area for the children or young people to play. The project will provide free access to an outdoor gym for residents whom cant afford private gym membership and allow families to work out together. Croydon has the highest percentage of child obesity in London. As well a high percentage of people with mental health and gardening has been linked to improved mental health. The project also has an advantage due to its close relationship with local organisations and statutory services which can be signposted to if needed.

Steps to get it done:

• prepare floor suface area
• project coordinator
• recruit young people volunteer for afterschool club
• to start creating gym space
• clear green area spaces
• coaches
• start afterschool club

Improve health and wellbeing of residents . Unique Roots aims to support people with healthier lifestyle choices to live well. We use gardening, cooking, physical fitness as Cognitive Stimulation Therapy, as well as opportunities for reminiscence, reflection and discussion. Through these activities, participants are able to experience a holistic program of therapy that helps co-workers to improve their cognitive skills, become more socially included to have a better quality of life.