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It is often said we are a nation of gardeners, but how many people in this country don t have access to a garden
01:00 Fri 16th Nov 2001 | Home & Garden
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It is estimated that up to 10 million of us Brits are gardenless, the majority, but by no means all in urban, built up areas.�
Q.� So what can you do if you like the idea of gardening but haven't got a garden of your own
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Britain has a flourishing community garden movement. It started in the 1960's as a response the decline in open spaces, the increasing numbers of people living in tower blocks and the creeping breakdown in community spirit that resulted.�
From small beginnings there are now over 500 community gardens and city farms in the UK.
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Q.� What makes a community garden
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Each one is unique; there is no set plan or blueprint. Community gardens differ according to the priorities of the community involved, the space available, funding available (if any).�
Many occupy derelict sites or the spaces between tower blocks, some are created as wildlife havens or for growing vegetables while others are designed for children to play in or simply somewhere for local residents to meet, sit and relax.
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However, there are a set of objectives that are usually common to community gardens, including a desire to transform underused or derelict land, a reliance on volunteers to keep the thing going and a commitment to help all ages to enjoy and learn about gardening.
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Q.� So how do you go about setting one up
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The first step is obviously to identify a suitable piece of land muster the local support you're going to need to create and keep the garden going. Having done that it's time to get as much help and advice as you can.�
The community garden movement is brought together by the Bristol-based Federation of City Farms and Community Gardens (FCFCG), and they should be your first stop.
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The first step is usually to get hold of their starter pack and from there they have staff who can advise on a range of issues such as legal requirements, securing grants and cash, budgeting, design and planting either by correspondence or by actual site visits.
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They will also be able to put you in touch with a community garden within travelling distance where you can meet organisers and volunteers and pick their brains. To contact FCFCG or to get more details either write to them at The Green House, Hereford Street, Bristol, BS3 4NA, telephone 0117 923 1800 or log onto their website at� www.farmgarden.org.uk.
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Q.� What can youngsters get out of them
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Children who would not get the chance at home are able to learn about plants and planting and the playing space a garden offers. Many gardens are used as bases for playgroups and after school clubs. Some are even used to provide young people with work experience and the chance to work practical skills, particularly those that are having difficulties at school.�
If you've got a question about your home or garden, click here.
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By Tom Gard
