25/08/2023: Community allotment receives almost £3,000 in grants

A group in East Tuddenham has received almost £3,000 in grants from Breckland Council to help develop their community allotment.

The East Tuddenham Community Allotment group received two grants from the district council to help further their existing project. The group was awarded a £500 Breckland Environmental Initiative grant, a grant scheme which supports project which protect and enhance the local environment. The group also received £2,411 from Breckland Council's Inspiring Communities Match Funding grant pot, which supports projects which help people experiencing isolation, loneliness, and mental and physical health challenges.

This funding has enabled the community group to buy a new poly tunnel, purchase more plants and buy materials to build extra bug hotels and bird feeders, providing an excellent habitat for different species to thrive.

The allotment was set up by Ann Keen in March 2022 to provide a safe place for people to get together and learn about growing fruit, flowers, herbs, and vegetables. In addition, Ann has completed a two-day Mental Health First Aid training course organised by Breckland Council, enabling her to provide advice and signposting to local people in need of mental health support.

The allotment has quickly become a sanctuary for people looking to improve their mental health and overcome isolation or loneliness, giving them an opportunity to make friends and learn more about nature and gardening. It also boasts a fantastic area for wildlife to flourish.

Cllr Tristan Ashby, Executive Member for Health and Communities, said: "The allotment provides a brilliant way for the community to get together, reducing isolation and enhancing both mental and physical health. Community groups such as these are a vital part of what makes Breckland great."

Cllr Paul Claussen and Cllr Paul Plummer, Ward Members for Mattishall which covers seven parishes, added: "This project has become a great social hub for people in the community to get together. The group is free to join and open to everyone, providing a great way to educate the generations to come about the importance of wildlife and community spirit."

If you would like to find an allotment in your area, reach out to your local parish council and they will let you know about any community groups or available plots.

Ann has previously been nominated as a Community Champion as part of Their Majesties' the King and Queen's commitment to supporting community volunteering. She attended the Royal Norfolk Show in June of this year alongside HM Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk and Lady Dannatt MBE, alongside other Community Champions.