RHS launches fund to help communities transform a communal spaces

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) is inviting applications from gardening groups wanting to transform a communal space and at the same time help close the generation gap; inspiring future gardeners and tackling issues such as loneliness.

Applicants must include one partner who is a Britain in Bloom, It’s Your Neighbourhood, RHS Campaign for School Gardening or RHS Affiliated Societies member and the proposed new space should do one of the following:

• Address local issues caused by climate change
• Promote better health and wellbeing
• Provide fresh, seasonal food for local people to share and enjoy
• Invite wildlife and boost local biodiversity

Up to 40 community gardening and school or youth group partnerships will receive £500 funding and professional support from the RHS Greening Grey Britain fund for projects that might include beautifying an alleyway, revitalising a concrete corner or adding more bee friendly planting to existing high street beds.

You can apply here. Applications close on 14th February 2018. All submitted ideas must have the approval of the landowner.

Andrea Van Sittart, head of regional development at the Royal Horticultural Society, says: “Community gardening groups across the country are leading the charge when it comes to greening our public spaces with the benefits extending far beyond improvements to the physical beauty of a place. In supporting them to engage with schools and youth groups we want to share people’s passion for plants and gardening, inspire the next generation and create new, invaluable opportunities for social interaction.”

The funding call comes as the government announced a new Minister for Loneliness to help tackle an issue affecting 9 million people across the UK. The RHS’ work with communities, schools and youth groups has shown the positive impact that gardening can have on health and wellbeing as well as the broader environmental, social and economic benefits of greener areas.

Find out more about Greening Grey Britain and how you can get involved in reclaiming grey spaces here.