Our project will pay for an experienced Community Garden Project Worker who will

Develop the project with the support of users and volunteers, Develop a seasonal food growing strategy for the space, Organise the allocation of raised beds , Provide ongoing support to all users , Liaise with local schools/nurseries and other local groups within the community to encourage wider engagement with the project, Organise weekly onsite tasks including maintenance and upkeep, Encourage and support the development of an allotments/growing spaces committee, Research further funding opportunities to support material/resource costs and long-term sustainability of the project

We believe our project will support the local community by

Providing the opportunity and resources for local people to grow their own fruit and vegetables, Providing local school children with basic gardening knowledge, highlighting the importance of healthy eating and increasing awareness of ‘where food comes from’, The users and participants will be able to supplement their family’s diets with food produced in the community growing space, Encouraging ownership and personal responsibility , Fostering collaboration and the benefits and positivity of working together, Providing a safe and inclusive space for people to meet and socialise – therefore reducing social isolation, Promoting intergenerational engagement through allotments/growing space users being supported to deliver gardening/growing sessions with local school children, Improving the physical and mental wellbeing of those involved

Breakdown of costs

£2,400 - Cost of Community Garden Project Worker to manage project/£20 per hour x 8 hours per week x 20 weeks

The Phoenix provides a range of activities, groups and opportunities for residents of Dumbarton West.  At the heart of The Phoenix is a community cafe offering a free to access lunch three days a week and a community breakfast once a week.  It also provides holiday hunger provision and a range of other groups including toddler cooking classes and numeracy classes for adults built around cooking.  We also provide volunteer opportunities for adults to develop new skills, reduce isolation, improved wellbeing, and develop their employability chances.

Our switch from a comemrcial (although heavily subsidised) model to a free to access (although many provide donations) came about 18 months ago after consultation with service users and their concerns about the cost of living crisis and the food insecurity that would bring.  Local people have also acknowledged the importance of community and peer support the cafe has brought especially for single parents and those new to the community.  Many service users have also been able to access volunteer opportunities, access adult learning classes and access other groups and activites for their families.  This has reduced isolation and improved mental wellbeing. 

With much of the kitchen installed over 6 years ago, there are elements that could do with some upgrades and improvements.  This will allow us to continue to provide the key services we offer in the community cafe.

Upgrade of ovens: £1900

Upgrade of crockery: £100

Upgrade of drinks fridge: £500