A group that manages a Ruddington allotment has received vital funding from ‘Reach Rushcliffe’ to help redevelop their gardening space to aid local residents’ health and mental wellbeing.
The Rushcliffe Social Prescribing Group run a plot at the ‘Paradise Gardens’ allotments off Wilford Road which has received the funds to assist with the purchase of a summer house, planters, plants, soil and paving to give the site more accessibility.
The space was donated by Ruddington Parish Council and will give those at risk of social isolation or loneliness in our village a quiet space to socialise, learn about gardening and to meet with likeminded residents – now linking with the Rushcliffe Borough Council (RBC) initiative which launched last year.
RBC’s Portfolio Holder for Communities and Climate Change, Cllr Abby Brennan, met with Social Prescribing Group and Parish Council representatives to view the colourful and welcoming site. Cllr Brennan is pictured above with (L to R) Parish Councillors Mike Gaunt (who is also a Rushcliffe Borough Councillor), Graham Fletcher, Leo Lanzoni and John Hawson.
She commented: “What a fabulous space this is and even more so once all the new features are installed, it’s brilliant to be able to support initiatives such as this. As we continue to adapt to a post COVID restrictions environment, it’s vital we continue to support those who may be vulnerable within our community and at risk of social isolation and loneliness.”
Cllr Brennan added: “We know the importance of fresh air and being outdoors and the positive impacts it has on our health, so I’m sure not only that the allotment will be thoroughly enjoyed by group members but that it will bring them health benefits too.”
The space is also set to be utilised by those suffering with mental health issues and obesity and offers a safe space for members of the LGBTQ+ community and residents on low income.
Morgan Sharpe, Rushcliffe Social Prescribing Group Team Leader, said: “We are delighted to receive this funding from Reach Rushcliffe which will transform the allotment space even further as lots of hard work has already gone into making it even usable! Being in nature is really calming and we hope that this will offer tranquillity to those in the local community that need it, as well as giving them the opportunity to learn new skills, meet people and improve their physical health.”
The pilot project for the scheme was successful last year prompting Parish Councillors in Ruddington to vote to donate the space for the project in the longer term.
Cllr Graham Fletcher commented: “We were really happy to donate the allotment area to this project. It’s great that this funding boost will see the site further developed so more local residents who may be at risk of loneliness or are isolated from their community will benefit.”
Other organisations in Ruddington, who are similarly looking to reduce social isolation, are also encouraged to apply for funding through Reach Rushcliffe by visiting www.rushcliffe.gov.uk/reachrushcliffe.
UPDATE 29th OCT 2021:
‘Paradise Allotments’ have just been shortlisted in the Health and Wellbeing Award category of the 2021 Celebrating Rushcliffe Awards.
Good luck to all involved!
