A group of volunteers who are passionate about gardening and its place in the bigger picture of health, wellbeing, inclusion and education of individuals, Three Towns Growers always knew what they wanted to achieve.
In the early days as a group of only nine the biggest difficulty was, in their own words, “our own limited skill pool, and also a restriction in the time individuals could offer.” Over the past four years, their board has developed their skills and expertise to such a level that they are now a point of contact for other groups looking for help and advice. There has also come an elevated level of confidence, and for some the opening of new doors.
As their numbers have increased, the load is more evenly shared by those who wish to help. Their outreach programmes, social events and workshops are open to all in the community, and they often find that a community member who may not want an allotment or raised bed on their site, is more than happy to help out as a volunteer. For that reason the group has recently introduced an ordinary membership that everyone is welcome to join.
Using the strapline growing sustainable communities describes the Three Towns Growers very well as they share their skills, passion and expertise tackling food poverty, social isolation and mental health issues locally.
Kenneth Gibson MSP said:
“Only last month, Three Towns Growers received an Our Place Award of £367,043 from the National Lottery Community Fund for their project '3TG Inspire.' The money will be used to develop an Education Hub at their Elm Park site and I was delighted to present them with their award in the Scottish Parliament on becoming finalists in this year’s Scottish Adult Learners Awards; a tribute to all their great work.”
ENDS
