Community Garden

The Community Garden was set up in 2021. It was in response to the experiences many had had during the COVID lockdowns. During this time people had become anxious about venturing out and meeting others. We were seeing that many in our community (including some in our church) were struggling to re-engage with society and were remaining isolated in their homes. Also during the lockdowns many had re-connected with nature, perhaps taking up an interest in gardening and wanting to engage with others in a safe, outdoor area.

We were fortunate to gain financial grants to help in the setting up costs – particularly from Garfield Weston Foundation, Oadby Educational Fund, Florence Turner Trust and Helen Jean Cope Trust – which supported the internal fund-raising.

Building the garden was a big community event! The beds were built, fences replaced, soil transported to the rear of the church and the greenhouse built!! It was wonderful to have so many support this work.

Since it opened the garden has become a key part of the church’s life. It hosts A Place to Grow on a Wednesday morning (more information here), Sunday coffee, BBQs and Games evenings.

Increasing numbers of people who have little or no previous connection with the church come to visit the garden, and to take away some of the produce.

We are passionate about the opportunities the Community Garden brings in welcoming people to our church. It is proving to be a place for great conversation, story sharing and witness.

If you are interested in finding out more feel free to pop in any Wednesday between 10am and 12 to meet us and see the garden!