Grant boost for Lalley allotment
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We’re really pleased to be able to support even more people at our Lalley community allotment, thanks to a Bupa Foundation Green Community Grant.
Research has shown 71 per cent of people say green spaces are good for their mental health, yet most don’t spend enough time in them, with over 80% saying they wish they could spend more time outside.
Our allotment, is a space where local people can learn green skills and socialise in a peaceful outdoor setting. Organic food grown on site also supplies our community food pantry, which is at our Lalley centre adjacent to the allotment space.
We’re now able to reach even more local people who are experiencing poverty and isolation thanks to the £2,000 grant.
The funded project included the redesign of the allotment which provides a welcome green haven in the busy city centre, making it more accessible to more people, as well as enabling the purchase of resources for a new library of garden and nature, and improvements to a shelter space for local people to gather in.
It’s part of Bupa’s Healthy Cities initiative, which supports grassroots projects that enhance urban green spaces, promoting both people and planet health.
Raddon Stephenson, our allotment manager said: “As a charity that works alongside people experiencing poverty, homelessness, disadvantage and social exclusion, providing holistic activities and services that support both the mental and physical wellbeing of adults and children in our area is at the heart of what we do.
“The Green Community Grant has helped us create a more inclusive and welcoming space in our Caritas Lalley community allotment where people can learn, grow and connect with nature, supporting their wellbeing, developing new skills, and building confidence within our community.”
Anna Russell, director of the Bupa Foundation, said: “At Bupa, we believe the health of people and the health of our planet are deeply connected. That’s why we’re proud to support grassroots projects like the Caritas Lalley community allotment. By supporting greener, healthier urban spaces – such as this allotment in North Manchester – we’re improving the health of our cities and encouraging people to spend more time outdoors to connect with nature.
“Applications for the next group of Green Community Grants are now open. We look forward to discovering more organisations to support with their projects and making a real difference to the health of our communities and the environment.”
Find out more about our Lalley Centre, Community Pantry and Allotment by clicking here now.
To find out more about volunteering opportunities at the Lalley and our other services click here now.