Abi Sweet
There are so many ways that we've all worked together to do exactly what we set out to do. Our gardening group is designed to bring together people from all backgrounds and ages and all levels of experience of gardening. For people who maybe don't have their own garden, maybe don't have much social interaction at the moment, for the purposes of improving wellbeing and social connection so some people that come here that really need that.
Alive Activities
Alive Activities
At the Wellspring Settlement in Barton Hill, the project partnered with the community garden group managed by Alive, a Bristol-based charity dedicated to improving the lives of older people. This collaboration has not only enhanced biodiversity in the area but also fostered social connections, improved mental health, and created lasting green spaces for future generations to enjoy.
A Green Oasis in the Heart of the City
The Wellspring Settlement is a vibrant community hub in a busy part of Bristol, and its garden has become a green oasis for local residents. Alive’s community garden group, which started two years ago, was designed to bring people together through gardening and green crafts, especially older people who may experience isolation. The group has grown over time, and with support from the Nextdoor Nature project, the garden has evolved into a thriving space that benefits both people and wildlife.
Abi Sweet, Alive’s Community Gardens Manager, explains that the garden was initially a neglected space. “We’ve transformed it into a place full of fruit trees, bushes, flowers, and wildlife,” she says. “It’s a little green sanctuary in an urban area. And it’s become an important place for the community, especially for those who may not have their own garden.”
The partnership with Nextdoor Nature provided valuable support, including expert advice, funding, and resources to help develop the space into a wildlife-friendly environment. One of the key achievements was the creation of a wildlife pond, which is now teeming with tadpoles. The group also received guidance on planting native pond plants, and they were able to install willow and hazel hurdles to help keep children safe. The pond has become a central feature of the garden, a source of pride for the group and a valuable habitat for local wildlife.
Gardening for Wellbeing and Community Building
The garden group at Wellspring Settlement isn’t just about growing plants; it’s about growing connections. For many participants, gardening is a therapeutic activity that improves their mental and physical health. As Ruth, a volunteer with the group, shares, “I love getting stuck in and making a difference. It’s great for my mental health, social health, and physical health. Being involved in something like this is good for your wellbeing. It’s about embracing the space and using it for the benefit of the environment and ourselves.”
The group’s activities include everything from planting flowers and vegetables to creating recycled wooden planters and hedgehog hotels. They’ve also done guerrilla gardening by planting flowers on local roundabouts, brightening up the area with vibrant pollinator-friendly plants like tulips, daffodils, and alliums. “These little touches of greenery in the surrounding streets make a big difference to the local community and to the wider environment,” says Abi.
Collaborating with Other Groups and Building a Legacy
The Nextdoor Nature project encouraged collaboration between different community groups in Bristol. Through a Community Connections day, the Wellspring Settlement garden group connected with other local gardening groups, such as the Redcliffe Community Gardening Group. They shared resources, knowledge, and ideas, which helped to strengthen their networks and increase their impact. “It was great to meet other groups, swap ideas, and learn from each other,” says Abi. “It really expanded our horizons and gave us a sense of belonging to a larger community.”
The project also helped the group forge lasting relationships with Avon Wildlife Trust staff, including Tay, who worked closely with the garden group. Tay’s enthusiasm and expertise helped bring the community together and made people feel confident and capable. Abi highlights that Tay’s involvement “was a huge boost for the group. She brought energy and knowledge, and really helped people connect with nature in a meaningful way.”
Looking ahead, the legacy of Nextdoor Nature is clear. “Even when the project ends, we’ve built connections that will last,” Abi says. “We’ve developed new skills, created beautiful spaces, and formed lasting relationships that will continue to grow.”
A City-wide Movement for Wildlife
The Nextdoor Nature project at the Wellspring Settlement is part of a larger effort across Bristol to create wildlife-friendly spaces in urban environments. By providing practical support and fostering community involvement, the project has inspired local residents to think creatively about how they can help protect wildlife and improve the environment in their own neighbourhoods.
For those interested in joining the gardening group, Abi encourages anyone to come along, regardless of their gardening experience. “The garden is open to everyone,” she says. “It’s about getting together, learning, and making something beautiful for the community and for wildlife. It’s a safe, welcoming space for all ages.”
The Wellspring Settlement garden is a testament to the power of community-driven conservation. It shows that, with the right support, urban spaces can be transformed into thriving ecosystems that benefit both people and wildlife. The collaboration between Nextdoor Nature, Avon Wildlife Trust, and Alive has not only created a beautiful garden but has also fostered a sense of pride and connection among those involved, making the space a truly special place for all.