National Allotments Week 2024

There are many Acts of Parliament around allotments and smallholdings, with some going back well over 100 years and together, they serve to show just how important these places are in our urban communities.

“ There’s so much more to allotments and community gardens than growing your own fruit and veg, although of course that is a huge benefit. Many people with allotments talk about how their plot is their happy place, where they can enjoy a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life, switch off from too much screen-time and have chats with their neighbours. Another bonus of course is sharing their produce in times of plenty. “

“ Allotments not only enable people to grow their own food but they also provide an environment that improves mental wellbeing and promotes multicultural socialisation. During the pandemic and lock downs, allotments were a lifeline for many and still are by providing a safe outside environment where people can come together and talk.

Allotments also comprise of very diverse communities with members from lone households and carers of elderly relatives with dementia and children/adults with learning difficulties. Some are unemployed, others have mental health issues - particularly depression - and some are disabled including wheelchair users. Allotments provide all these people with facilities that enable all to come together and those who do not normally join in see others meet and are encouraged to participate. “

“ The allotment is a way to encourage wildlife and biodiversity to flourish in order to assist plot holders in growing the best crops for themselves, whilst also teaching the younger generation about the ecosystem.

The theme of this year’s National Allotment Week is biodiversity. While it’s unlikely that slugs and snails will be a welcome guest in many gardens and allotments, lots of allotment holders find corners for plants that nature’s pollinators love, such as lavender in the summer.

Although many sites are currently fully occupied and have waiting lists, there are available plots on a small number of sites. “

“ I know a lot of people will understand what I mean when I say that many allotment holders make me think of both The Wombles and The Borrowers, because they can see new life for items some of us might just take to the tip and that’s a win-win for all of us.

There has also been a welcome rise in allotment holders being keen to encourage biodiversity by putting bee hotels and bat boxes on their plots.We have a limited pot of grant money which the sites can apply for to assist with communal improvements, but the closing date is fast approaching. “