Greenfingers grows again

Story: Michelle Cook

Early on the morning of 31st January, Greenfingers had their greenhouse blown up by vandals. A few weeks later, they are well on the way to recovery, thanks to the support of the community.

The scheme, at Grimesthorpe allotments, involves local volunteers and paid workers to act as mentors for those experiencing mental health problems.

The new £2800 greenhouse has been erected and the site so well cleared that there is now little trace of the explosion. Many of the tools lost have been replaced thanks to generous donations:

• A whip round at Abbeyfield Grange care home, in lieu of Christmas cards raised £100

• Northlands Community Mental Health Team whip round £72

• Sheffield PCT £500

• Burngreave Area Panel £2000

• Sheffield City Council, Parks £990

• One SAGE volunteer donated his travel expenses

• Tools For Africa donated tools

• Local individuals and supermarkets also contributed

Diana Tottle, project director, said “I would like to thank everyone for their support.”

James Kazadi, one month into his post as an admin worker, said, “I love my job, I get a great deal of satisfaction from working in this environment with such great people.” James brings experience of his homeland in the Congo, where he helped his father who is a keen gardener.

A celebration day is planned for volunteers, with an exhibit of clay masks made at a workshop with potter, Sue Mulroy and Natural England. The Tuesday women's group will also unveil their mosaic ‘welcome’ plaque.

It is clear this project is a valuable resource to the local community. The workers engage people in so many ways – not only gardening, but arts and crafts and even preparing soup for lunch. The view from the hill and the fresh air give an extra feeling of wellbeing. It is much more than just an allotment.

The project is always looking for volunteers who are able to commit at least half a day a week. Anyone interested can contact Diana Tottle on 0114 274 3651.