Volunteers from a Southampton business are to help extend the city's only disabled-friendly allotment.
AtkinsRéalis employees will be rolling up their sleeves to create more planters, upgrade station rooms, design signage, and more for the allotment, which is benefitting residents with disabilities and special needs.
The extension follows the success of a prototype wheelchair-accessible allotment created by volunteers from St Denys, which featured specially designed "road-tested" planters.
These planters were developed for and tested by clients of relevant organisations.
More and more residents are being given the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of growing food, which plays a significant role in health and wellbeing.
A spokesperson said: "We are thrilled to support this initiative, which brings significant social value to our community. Social value is about creating positive impacts that enhance the wellbeing of individuals and the community as a whole. At AtkinsRéalis, we are committed to sustainability and inclusivity.
"By extending the wheelchair-accessible allotment, we provide opportunities for everyone to engage with nature, learn new skills, and be part of a supportive social network.
"This project promotes health, wellbeing, and community spirit, while fostering environmental stewardship.
"Our volunteers are dedicated to making a tangible difference and we are excited to see the impact of their efforts in creating more accessible and enjoyable spaces for everyone."
Margaret Booker volunteer coordinator said: "It is unfair that Southampton residents with disabilities or mobility issues have little opportunity to get the benefit of community gardening.
"We are so pleased that a major business has offered their time, effort and skills to allow us to offer more residents this opportunity .
"We very much welcome volunteers from the community, other local groups and businesses.
"We also always need compost, gardening tools, wheel barrows and much more."
The project is supported by the Three Rivers Community Rail Partnership and South West Rail, which also provided a grant to aid its success.
The allotment is located at Southampton's St Denys station and aims to tackle food accessibility issues.
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