Ambleside Road Allotment Association

The 3R Foundation recently awarded £490 to Ambleside Road Allotment Association in Lancaster for a wheeled grass trimmer, lightweight garden tools and 24 pairs of gardening gloves.

Based in the heart of the Ridge Estate, Ambleside Road Allotments has developed into much more than a place to grow fruit and vegetables. Twice-weekly volunteer work parties bring together plot holders, local residents and organisations including CancerCare, Hug in a Mug and Red Rose Recovery.

With volunteers currently ranging in age from 11 to 92, the allotment has created a real sense of community, helping people form friendships, work together and combat social isolation.

The grant focused particularly on making gardening more accessible. Some volunteers are older, recovering from illness or simply find conventional gardening equipment too heavy to use comfortably.

The funding provided a wheeled grass trimmer, which can be pushed rather than carried like a conventional strimmer, along with lightweight rakes, border spades and forks. The grant also provided 24 pairs of gardening gloves in different sizes, ensuring volunteers can find a comfortable and safe pair to use.

As the group put it, it's about having "the right tool for the right job." These simple changes mean more volunteers can get involved independently, contribute to the work and enjoy the satisfaction of helping improve a community space they are rightly proud of.

The 3R Foundation funds grants like this through the Recycle, Reuse, Rehome charity shop in Carnforth (next to Tesco).

Every purchase in the shop helps fund grants for local charities, clubs and community groups across North Lancashire and South Cumbria.