Celebrating 3 Years of Greening our Communities
Empowering local action for global climate impact
The Greening Our Communities fund supports communities in Norfolk taking action to improve their local environment while providing people with the positive effects of being outside and connecting with nature. As we celebrate the third anniversary of this transformative fund, we reflect on the incredible journey we’ve embarked on together. Over the past three years, this program has not only empowered local action but has also sought to address the global challenge of climate change. Through the support of sustainable community initiatives, we have laid the groundwork for environmentally conscious and resilient communities who are stewards of their local environment and advocates for a greener Norfolk.
A Local Solution to a Global Problem
The power of Greening Our Communities lies in its ability to bring a global problem down to a local scale. By listening to the unique needs and priorities of each community, we have helped communities through funding to create lasting positive impacts on their local environment and improve the quality of life for their neighbours. The programme offers a holistic approach to environmental sustainability, encompassing critical issues such as biodiversity, climate resilience, and community wellbeing.
Since 2021…
Projects from the past 3 years…
2021
The Common Plot: Learning, building, thriving
Norwich-based theatre group The Common Lot have expanded their activities by creating ‘The Common Plot’, a community project getting their members involved with basic horticulture. Thanks to the fund, they have been able to get the equipment they need so a horticulture and education specialist can run workshops with the group. Members report finding a sense of shared purpose, and the more the allotment develops, the more people are becoming involved. More than two years on, the project is still going strong.
“When Bill first arrived at The Plot, he was a shy 17-year-old with no confidence and few friends, often hiding behind his father, an active community member. Early last year, Bill began to engage by digging a small corner of the land. Inspired by the discovery that his grandfather once owned a plot here, Bill planted a tree with his father and started gardening.
Over 18 months, his plot yielded potatoes, garlic, kale, and carrots, bringing him joy and boosting his confidence. He now makes eye contact, initiates conversations, and has developed a passion for nature and arboriculture. E visits The Plot every weekend, studies wildlife management at Easton College, and recently secured a job at a local garden centre, crediting The Plot as a major influence.” – Simon, The Common Lot
2022
Centre 81: Environmentalism for all
Centre 81, a charity supporting disabled people in Great Yarmouth, recently moved to a new building in 2022. Despite ample space, the 1.5-acre concrete site lacked greenery. With a Greening Our Communities grant, they transformed this area by adding greenery and creating raised beds for accessible gardening. They have plant vegetables, fruits, and flowers, attracting beneficial insects. This project has enhanced their environment, promoted healthy living, and has fostered a sense of community.
“‘Dan’ thought that being wheelchair dependent meant that he was no longer able to do any more gardening. He thoroughly enjoyed and succeeded in the challenge of helping us to ‘Green our Community’.” -Diana, Centre 81
2023
Field of Joy: Building skills and stewardship
Field of Joy used their grant to deliver nature and conservation sessions to different groups in the community, including young people, those with SEND, retired and isolated individuals, people experiencing long term health problems, those struggling with their mental health and refugees and asylum seekers. Field of Joy’s site in Reepham has become a focal point for a real self-supporting community through a range of activities including native tree and hedge planting, planting wildflowers, creating bird feeders, “No Dig” vegetable growing, and nature meditation.
“I’m really interested in learning to grow veg sustainably, it’s been really interesting to see how you can protect your garden from drought and work with nature.” – Volunteer, Field of Joy
2024
What’s next for Greening our Communities?
Our 2024 funding round closed in mid-July and will be assessed over the summer. The latest round has been the most competitive yet, and the programmes team are looking forward to showcasing the projects to the funding panel, who will have the challenge of choosing which projects will be successful.
In-depth: From Wasteland to Woodland
Greening Wymondham has revitalised a neglected urban area on the periphery of Browick Road Recreation Ground. This space, once overgrown and filled with dumped waste, is being transformed into a biodiverse oasis accessible to all.
The Community Orchard is a cornerstone of the project. Volunteers have planted bulbs, wildflower areas, and over thirty local heritage variety fruit trees. Thanks to funding from our Greening our Communities fund, the orchard has been able to expand to include a Forest Food Garden, an enlarged activity area, raised beds, and additional planting.
