Rooted in the Community: the success of our partnership with Roots Allotment

Since launching our partnership with Roots Allotment in late summer 2025, the initiative at Galleywood Meadow has provided young people with a space to connect and learn, while reducing social isolation and improving emotional wellbeing through sustainable gardening.

The "Plant to Plate" journey

A key part of this partnership is our Plant to Plate program. This initiative helps young people learn where their food comes from by engaging them in every step, starting with planting seeds and ending with cooking meals.

Participants have already gained hands-on experience with:

• Natural growing methods: Learning to plant and protect crops like tomatoes, radishes, and carrots without the use of harmful chemicals.
• Life skills: Developing essential routines in gardening, teamwork, and shared responsibility.
• Sustainability: Discovering how a small number of seeds can produce an abundance of food, highlighting cost-saving benefits and environmental impact.

The project has successfully created a safe, informal environment where long-term friendships are forming. Produce grown at the allotment is regularly used during InterAct cooking sessions including within the Together Club, reinforcing the connection between growing food and enjoying it together.

Looking Ahead

InterAct is committed to the long-term future of the Roots Allotment project. As we move forward, we will continue to:

• Teach food growing, cooking, and budgeting skills.
• Expand learning around environmental responsibility.
• Foster independence and confidence in every young person involved.

Find out more: You can read the full details of our progress and see the impact of this project in our Case Study on the link below.

View the Case Study