A COMMUNITY allotment supporting homeless people in Worcester is starting to take shape.
The Maggs Day Centre allotment project is designed to provide a safe, purposeful outdoor environment where people experiencing homelessness and severe disadvantage can grow food, build confidence and develop routine in a supportive, non-judgemental setting. More than a growing space, the allotment will offer opportunities to improve wellbeing, learn practical skills and reconnect with community.
Nichola Osborne, allotment lead at Maggs, said: “Seeing the space begin to take shape has been incredibly uplifting. The raised beds are already transforming the site, and it’s exciting to think about the difference this project will make – giving people a calm, welcoming place to spend time outdoors, learn new skills and experience a sense of achievement.”
Employees from Worcester-based company Unilite volunteered their time on site, helping prepare the ground and construct raised beds. Working alongside Maggs staff, the team made significant progress in just one day, bringing structure and definition to the allotment space and creating a strong foundation for future planting.
The raised beds will soon be used to grow fruit, vegetables and flowers, supporting wellbeing, routine and skill-building for those taking part in sessions.
Produce grown on site will support Maggs’ day centre provision and wider community partnerships, helping extend the project’s benefits beyond the allotment itself.
The project has also been supported by Wickes Worcester, which donated timber and essential materials used to build the beds. Their contribution has provided the practical foundations needed to bring the project to life and will support the next phase of development, including additional planting areas, pathways and growing spaces that will allow participants to learn gardening skills and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of time outdoors.
As the project continues to grow, Maggs is inviting residents, businesses and community groups to get involved. Volunteers are needed to help with planting, site preparation and ongoing sessions, while donations of tools, plants, materials or financial support will help ensure the project can flourish.
Visit www.maggsdaycentre.co.uk for more details.
