Page 39 - ALG Issue 4 2023

My early research led me to the Little Chester allotments based in Derby. Having heard that this site had received the Green Flag Award on several occasions for the best community allotment site, I decided to pay a visit.
I was greeted by David Stirland, the site Chairman. David’s other hat is that of NAS Deputy Representative for the East Midlands. I was also fortunate to meet Lea O’Meara, Project Manager for Disability Direct’s accessible allotment project ‘Plot to Plate’.
The Plot to Plate project was launched in 2017 with a vision of giving disabled and older people the chance to grow their own fruit and vegetables in a supported environment. After giving careful consideration to various impairments, the allotment now
has a large polytunnel, seating area,
accessible pathways and raised
beds and has been designed to give independence to those who access the project. The project also has a second allotment on the Little Chester site, which has been opened to support unpaid carers and those looking to improve their mental health, giving them access to an outdoor growing space of their own. Both plots are free to access.
This 163-plot site is one of the best kept sites I have seen, with easy access to almost every plot. Their relationship with the local community and local farms (for manure provision) is second to none. If any allotment sites in the UK want to see interaction between every faction of the community, you need to look no further than the Little Chester site.
Despite my many years working in the field of those with special needs, it was a moving experience for me
Not only do they work in partnership with Disability Direct’s Plot to Plate project, they also have other community projects on site, which benefit those with additional needs. Derwent Green Gym have held a huge allotment there for many years, and more recently Derby County Community Trust have developed their allotment to support those with Alzheimer’s and dementia
in partnership with the charity ‘Making Space’. This relationship has resulted in a superb garden plot.
Despite my many years working in the field of those with special needs, it was a moving experience for me to see the extent to which David and his fellow allotment holders have gone to embrace the whole community. This includes working with the probation service where young people can enjoy helping with weekly maintenance chores.
In conclusion, it is little wonder why the Little Chester allotments shine as an example of good practice. No matter how small or large your allotment site may be, it is worth investigating the possibility of embracing those who would love the opportunity to share in the joy of allotment life, but are unable to do so because of accessibility issues.
Good Luck!
Terry Harrison MBE, JP
Allotment and Leisure Gardener 39