The Hargreaves Foundation supports Redcatch Community Garden

The trustees of the Hargreaves Foundation are pleased to announce that funding has been awarded to Redcatch Community Garden, a community-led organisation in Knowle, South Bristol, that is transforming a disused bowling green into a thriving green space. The garden improves health, wellbeing and community connection through accessible outdoor activities, serving an area that is among the 10% most deprived in the country.

Many of the young people who use the garden live in neighbourhoods facing high child poverty, poor health and limited access to safe green spaces. Without suitable provision, those with special educational needs, adverse childhood experiences or who are not in education, employment or training risk further isolation, poor mental health and disengagement from school. Schools and Bristol City Council’s SEND Inclusion Team refer young people to the garden because the approach works, but demand for places is high.

With funding from the Hargreaves Foundation, Redcatch Community Garden will deliver small-group nature-based wellbeing sessions for secondary school-age young people, twice a week throughout term time. Groups of six to eight participants will take part in two-hour sessions led by a registered art therapist and a SENDCo, supported by experienced garden staff and volunteers. Activities include gardening, art therapy, team projects and creative performance, all in a calm, low-pressure setting with consistent trusted adults. The aim is for participants to build confidence, form friendships and re-engage with learning.