Bloom Sheffield

Community Garden for Women

Feel Good Gardening

The seed of Bloom was planted all the way back in 2019, when Kendall found herself with an overgrown allotment, a need for solace, and the beginnings of some very big dreams.

Despite broken buildings and weeds taller than she was, digging, growing and caring for her plants gave Kendall the peace and comfort she’d been seeking during a difficult time. And it was this, plus the green thumb she’d inherited from her dad and grandad, that inspired her to set up Bloom – a community space where women and non-binary people could find the same respite in gardening that she had.

Since then, the initiative has grown to welcome over 50 volunteers, 7 staff, and 40 members a week across three thriving gardens.

And there’s plenty more growing still to do.

It’s a fact: gardening is good for you.

The mental and physical health benefits of planting and pottering have been well-documented, and we see the impact in our volunteers and team members every single day.

Gardening:

• Encourages friendships through positive, productive teamwork

• Reduces symptoms of stress, fatigue and anxiety

• Increases feelings of community, purpose and belonging

• Builds confidence and self-esteem

• Gives people feelings of pride, achievement and satisfaction

• Builds energy, strength, stamina and resilience

• Connects people with nature

• Gives people a sense of hope and optimism

• And so much more!