A community project in Keyworth that helps locals combat loneliness and social isolation by connecting people through nature and conservation work, has received funding from Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Reach Rushcliffe initiative.
Keyworth Community Garden was set up last year to give people the confidence to come together in a safe environment, learn about nature and build a sustainable garden for residents to enjoy.
Volunteers will create a community orchard with fruit trees accessible for the community, wildflowers and sensory plants for a meditation area. Small trees will also be planted to provide berries for local wildlife.
The garden can be accessed from Croft Road or Plantation Road in Keyworth and will be an eco-friendly site aiming to harvest its own water to limit waste.
Reach Rushcliffe is the Rushcliffe Borough Council project that supports initiatives that aim to tackle loneliness and social isolation in this way and to date has funded or part-funded over 40 projects.
The Council’s Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Environment and Safety Cllr Rob Inglis joined the duo behind the community project Amanda Ramsay and Nicola Twidale, for the official open day on Saturday October 1.
It saw residents come together to start work on the garden, that’s now open and enjoy some celebratory cake!
He said: “It’s amazing to see everyone has come together and it’s a great way to get people outdoors. Everyone of all ages, from primary age to elderly people are welcome and there is wheelchair access too.
“The garden is going to be a valuable asset, as are Amanda and Nicola, who are fantastic ambassadors and so knowledgeable. They have both worked tirelessly to bring their idea to fruition. It will provide a sense of belonging, especially after Covid, it’s a fantastic way to help build people’s confidence and be part of project which brings together the whole community.
“Gardening is not only good for physical health but for helping with mental health and wellbeing too.
“Interest in the village has been really good and we encourage even more people in Keyworth and further afield to get involved!”
Those interested in participating in the project should email Amanda or Nicola at [email protected].
Amanda added: “We are delighted that after two years of hard work we are able to welcome people to what we hope will be a wonderful outdoor space where the local community can come together, make connections and feel a sense of belonging and pride.
“It means a lot to receive funding from Reach Rushcliffe, which went towards the V-mesh fencing that surrounds some of the land.
“We’re also appreciative of funding from other organisations and the many generous donations from the community including the Keyworth show committee, The Inner Wheel and local people through our many fundraising activities.
“Every bit of funding goes a long way to help grow our wonderful community garden.”
Reach Rushcliffe is open to further applications for funding.
Town and parish councils, local groups and organisations are invited to put forward proposals for setting up, sustaining or expanding projects that take innovative approaches to tackling loneliness within the Borough.
To find out more and submit an application, visit www.rushcliffe.gov.uk/reachrushcliffe