About the Organisation
EcoLocal is an independent charity that acts as a hub for community-led projects, events and activities. Our aim is to "achieve strong, vibrant communities in a healthy environment".
What you will be doing
Come along and learn fruit and veg growing skills, get some free exercise in the fresh air, meet loads of interesting new people and improve your wellbeing and outlook on life. We always have different activities to take part in including planting seeds, pruning, digging and harvesting. With support from an enthusiastic, experienced gardener, you can choose what you'd like to grow and find a comfortable level of physical activity.
You'll need to be prepared to help at the food growing sessions, weeding, watering, sowing and growing, you even get to take a share of the harvest home to eat - for free!
Wear appropriate clothes and footwear you don't mind getting muddy, and be prepared to get wet and/or dirty from time to time. Bring warm clothes too if it's a cold day.
What's in it for you?
Exercise, fresh air and sense of wellbeing in a peaceful outdoor environment. Meet new people, or work on your own - it's very flexible. Everybody who takes part at the community allotment tells how good they feel afterwards. Take fresh veg home.
"I think it is quite beneficial. To get out into the open air is good. I’ve met people, I get fresh veggies. And I think it’s good for my health, my mental health, my physical health. It’s great. Free food helps with my bills and it’s good to meet new people. It also helps keep me fit." Udo, who regularly volunteers
What skills will you need?
You don’t need to be an experienced gardener to join our project—everyone is welcome! If you already have gardening knowledge, you can share your skills with others. If you’re new, we’ll happily show you the ropes.
What we ask of volunteers:
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A basic level of physical fitness for outdoor work (tasks can be adapted to suit different abilities).
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Willingness to work outdoors in all weathers.
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Ability to follow instructions and work as part of a team.
We welcome people with mild learning disabilities, dementia, or other health conditions. However, participants do need to be able to follow instructions and work independently and safely, as we cannot provide one-to-one support.
Age Range: we welcome under 18s from 16+.
What's the time commitment and where?
Time Commitment: We are flexible and our volunteers usually volunteer a couple of hours each week.
Mondays 10.30am – 12.30pm
Fridays 10.30am – 12.30pm
Saturdays 9.30am – 11.30am
The Monday and Friday sessions are suitable for people of all abilities to join in and you are welcome whether you are an experienced gardener or a total beginner. Saturdays are for more independent gardeners or those who can help with DIY type repairs.
Location:
Carshalton Community Allotments, Westmead Allotment Site, Colston Avenue, Carshalton, SM5 2PW
Please use the form below to connect with EcoLocal who will then send you further information.
Disability and Access Support:
Part of the allotment plot is wheelchair accessible with raised beds. However, wheelchair users should consider their individual needs, as the access track is long and uneven. The toilet has a ramp and may be suitable for some wheelchair users, though it is not fully accessible.
How can I apply?
Please complete the form below and we will put you in contact with the organisation. It’s helpful if you can tell us a little about yourself and why you’re interested in this role in the message box below.
By completing this form you agree for us to pass on your contact details to the organisation.