Social Enterprise Red Carpet
By Alison Park, 28 March 2011 –
I am going to London tomorrow for the Social Enterprise Awards reception at the O2 arena. Growing Well put us forward for the Social Enterprise Partner category. It’s a bit of a thrill even reading the list of finalists: Glasgow Caledonian University, RBS Community Banking West Lindsey District Council ... and little old Low Sizergh Farm.
Six or so years ago Beren Aldridge, working for Voluntary Action Cumbria, approached us having heard that we were looking for a keen allotment grower to take on a plot of land in order to supply vegetables to the farm shop. Beren, now Growing Well manager, and colleague (now Growing Well’s Growing Coordinator, James Smith) had come up with a unique plan to support people recovering from mental health problems on a farm. So whilst we’re mutually independent, our two businesses complement each other exceptionally well.
Whether we get to walk down the red carpet or not, everyone at Growing Well and the farm can be proud of the national recognition.