Success of Highland Community Growing Networking Event

The Federation of City Farms and Community Gardens invited groups and individuals from across Highland to attend a regional Community Growing Networking event in Inverness on Monday (26 October).

The event was a networking opportunity for community growing projects, and individuals and organisations interested in community growing. The day was fully subscribed, bringing together over 50 stakeholders from the public and third sector.

Delegates were invited to learn from successful projects from throughout the area.  During the day delegates were given the chance to share skills, knowledge and information, and to learn more about the benefits of community growing. The day included a site visit to Glachbeg Croft Education Centre on the Black Isle.

Roz Corbett of The Federation of City Farms and Community gardens said “It was excellent to see so many people come along, and see people meeting new projects and sharing ideas and information with each other.  The network of community growing in the highlands is vibrant and clearly making an impact on their local communities”

Dan Jenkins, Health Promotion Specialist with NHS Highland said: “This event was a great opportunity to share contacts and experience. So many different aspects of health can be improved through community growing projects; it is encouraging that we have such a wealth of skills and enthusiasm in Highland. We also have a huge desire to make the opportunities accessible for everyone, and help to reduce inequalities through these activities.”

Chair of The Highland Council’s Planning, Development and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Audrey Sinclair said: “Community growing is a key way to support social inclusion and improve health and wellbeing while supporting wider benefits in local environments.

“I am delighted to hear that so many individuals and groups were able to attend this worthwhile event in Inverness, which I am sure will help empower community groups take action in their community.”

In their feedback, one Conference delegate said: “My knowledge of community growing has been improved a lot.  I’ve learnt ideas about sensory gardening and activities, and the value of relationships with local organisations and businesses to get support and involvement.”

The Federation of City Farms and Community Gardens work to help communities grow community benefit at a grass root level. More information about The Federation of City Farms and Community Gardens can be found on their website. https://www.farmgarden.org.uk/