A WOKINGHAM-based horticultural charity has received a donation from David Wilson Homes that will enable the group to grow in all weathers.
The housebuilder is supporting Growing Places-Berkshire with the construction of a new 30ft polytunnel, to enable year round gardening to take place.
Run by volunteers, the charity relies on the support of local and national organisations to fund projects and purchase new equipment.
Brian Stainton, trustee secretary at Growing Places-Berkshire, said: “As volunteers, we rely on the support of the local community to continue providing a vital space for people with learning disabilities.
“We had been meaning to tackle our polytunnel project for a long time, so David Wilson Homes’ support could not have been better timed. “We are grateful for their backing which has enabled us to embark on this project.”
Growing Places-Berkshire, together with Optalis, the Adult Services provider for Wokingham Borough, provides opportunities for people with learning disabilities to take part in hands-on horticultural work experience.
The adults work in a large market garden, as well as in a substantial conservation area.
They also have their own plots where they can grow what they choose.
Optalis professionals supervise the adults and plan all the activities, while Growing Places-Berkshire provides all materials, seeds, hand tools, power tools, growing beds, polytunnels and structural improvements.
It then organises the selling of all produce to raise funds for the following year’s growing.
The donation from David Wilson Homes has supported the construction of a new 30ft polytunnel with a 30ft by 3ft by 3ft raised bed and wheelchair access to allow those with additional physical impairment to contribute to the work.
Barratt Homes’ donation comes from The Barratt Foundation, the housebuilder’s charity partnership, which supports children, young people and environmental groups wherever Barratt Developments PLC operates across the UK.
It is part of the housebuilder’s commitment to sustainability and support for the community around its new home developments, to protect the local environment and wildlife.
Alex Dowling, sales and marketing director at Barratt David Wilson Southern Counties, said: “Growing Places-Berkshire is a fantastic charity that brings the joy of the great outdoors to those with learning disabilities who may not have access to the necessary support, and equipment to embark on horticultural projects themselves.
We are proud to support its brilliant work in the local community and to see the completion of its new polytunnel in preparation for growing throughout the year.”
For information, visit: growingplacesberkshire.org.uk and www.dwh.co.uk.
