Petworth Community Garden is a thriving community garden on a social housing estate, supporting low-income locals to grow organic fruit and vegetables. They work with local residents to improve their health, nutrition and wellbeing.

Their project called “Learn & Grow” focuses on people living on low incomes in the rural area of Petworth. It aims to support particularly those with learning or physical disabilities and older people who may be isolated or suffer from dementia.

During the Learn & Grow sessions participants learn how to work with soil, planting, harvesting, and enjoy the rewards of growing their own food. They can also attend the ‘Plot-to-Plate’ cooking sessions learning how to make seasonal, cheap and healthy meals.

A's story

“A came to us after suffering from a stroke at the age of 30. He was severely restricted in movement down one side of his body, and when he first came to us, he was very depressed, self-harming and at risk of suicide.

The first day he arrived, however, we discovered that he had previously worked on a fruit farm and had lots of farming experience. We encouraged him not only to prune the fruit but also to teach others how to do it. His self-esteem grew dramatically as he felt he was being 'useful' again, and he made really good friends, often sharing gardening advice. He said of the garden project: ‘This is the only time I eat properly or see anyone during the week.’

We supported him further to create an accessible garden for him and now he grows all his own vegetables there, and has learned to cook fresh produce. He told us that before he came to us, he didn't feel any hope but now his life has meaning and purpose again, and he is enjoying gardening, cooking and eating healthily. He has made many new friends and is looking forward to this new gardening season.”

To find out more visit https://growingforall.org.uk/