Forest Gate Community Garden
In 2013 a group approached the Council to set it up as a community garden, finally getting a lease in 2015. Over 70 volunteers worked to clear rubbish and buddleia, build raised beds, a pond, and finally put in plants. The garden opened to the public in 2016. Since then it has run music events, various celebrations for Winter, Christmas and Spring, art activities, children’s activities, as well as regular plant sales.
The fence was originally wooden boards with a colourful mural. When part of it blew down in the winter of 2022, the opportunity was taken to erect a wire fence, making the garden more visible, and less intimidating. A prized part of the garden is the two large, colourful mosaics, one a snail, the other a frog. (insert photos)
Schools visit to learn regularly, and other groups such as Forest Gate WI and Woodcraft Folk use it in the warmer months, as do local artists. There are three paid, part-time workers: a gardener a co-ordinator and an admin assistant, with all other helpers being volunteers. The garden is a charity, open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sunday morning, always with volunteers in attendance.
The philosophy is to be more than a garden, having regular events with music, art, food, and activities for children.
Ways That You Can Volunteer
Volunteers are the backbone of the garden. They work as garden hosts in small teams to open the garden to the public and are involved in both its maintenance and upkeep. They are essential in the successful running of all of our events. Being a volunteer is fun, social and rewarding. You don’t have to know anything about gardening as you will receive all the support you need. The volunteer’s role is vital to ensuring that the garden is widely used by the local community.
We are always looking for volunteers. If you would like to offer some time please send us a message.
Corporate Volunteering
Specialist Volunteering Requirements
Volunteer, Newham
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