Improving health and wellbeing in Nottingham
Emmanuel House’s allotment project continues for another year thanks to a grant from Nottingham City Council’s ‘Healthy Communities’ team. The grant aims to improve health and reduce inequalities across Nottingham.
Based at the historic St Ann’s Allotments, the project supports people who have experience of homelessness or are vulnerably housed. Over the past 15 years, our allotment has become much more than a place to grow fruit and veg. It is a safe and welcoming space where people can improve their physical and mental wellbeing, develop new skills and build meaningful social connections.
The project offers weekly sessions throughout the growing season, where participants work alongside Emmanuel House staff and volunteers to cultivate vegetables, maintain the site and enjoy the benefits of spending time outdoors. A free breakfast, shared lunches with home-grown produce and accessible transport help ensure participants can participate.
Many people supported by Emmanuel House face barriers to good health, including food insecurity, and lack of knowledge about nutrition, social isolation, poor mental health, and limited access to green space. The allotment project directly addresses these challenges through gardening activities, healthy cooking sessions, wellbeing discussions and opportunities to learn practical skills that can build confidence and support future employment.
Belonging, purpose and time in the great outdoors
The impact of the project continues to be significant. Last year, participants reported improvements in mental health, confidence, physical wellbeing and healthy eating habits. For some, the allotment is their only regular social activity and offers a vital sense of belonging and purpose.
A plan for the year ahead
As well as weekly gardening sessions, this year’s programme will include health workshops, winter wellbeing activities, local nature walks, classes on cooking and shopping on a budget, and opportunities to learn about nutrition, mindfulness and sustainable living.
The recent grant comes at an important time following a pause in activity caused by a lack of funding. Participants regularly told staff how much they missed the allotment, with many describing the positive effect it has on their mental health and wellbeing.
We look forward to welcoming both returning and new participants back to the allotment as the project enters its 15th year, continuing to provide one of Nottingham’s most unique and value wellbeing initiatives for people facing homelessness and social exclusion.
A huge thank you to Nottingham City Council’s Public Health department for enabling the project to continue.
How you can help
- Donate new tools, seeds, plants or a gazebo
- Volunteer at the allotment
Email us at donations@emmanuelhouse.org.uk to arrange donations or volunteering.
