Concrete to Coriander successfully promotes the benefits of allotment gardening to Asian women and other under-represented groups. Initially it was set up to operate in the Saltley and Small Heath areas of Birmingham, but activities are now expanding into the Aston area.
The project has engaged a significant number of women in growing vegetables, learning new horticultural skills, and adopting a healthier lifestyle through improved diet and exercise. The project was developed by CSV in 1999, and has grown in popularity over the years.
Allotments and groups
Garden groups meet regularly at Small Heath Park, Bordesley Green and Hob Moor Road Allotments, and now Aston Manor School. New members are always welcome to come along and give gardening a try.
We are particularly looking for new members for our Aston group, which is starting in August 2008. Join us on Tuesdays or Wednesdays at Aston Manor School to help us plan and set up the new garden here.
Bangladeshi Women's Gardening Club
Based on a dedicated site in Small Heath Park, the women not only grow vegetables, they learn new horticultural skills, visit other gardens and allotments, receive visitors from other women's groups, and attend workshops and conferences. Members of the club have formed a food and catering co-operative - Mohila Shamiti - and regularly attend various Green Fairs and Markets.
East Birmingham Garden Competition
This competition aims to develop greater appreciation of the environment, reduce isolation and break down social barriers, thus improving community spirit. Entrants are judged in four categories:
- School gardens
- Community and allotment gardens
- Residents' vegetable gardens
- Residents' flower gardens
The prize-giving event featured children’s presentations, stories and poems about their activities and their local environment.
For more information, please contact Irena Iwegbu on 0121 327 6054 or email irena@csvenvironment.org.uk
This project receives a grant from Aston Pride through the COFSS programme, which is funded by the following organisations:
