About the project

Plot to Plate opened its first accessible plot in 2017 and since then, the project has created partnerships with various organisations, enabling disabled and older people to grow their own fruit and vegetables in a supported environment. The plot comprises of raised beds, a large polytunnel, a greenhouse and accessible pathways to enable anyone with additional needs to enjoy the experience of allotment life. There is also a patio area for planting and potting on as well as enjoying that all important cuppa!

As well as holding multiple member sessions every week, Plot to Plate also supports students & staff from three separate groups at St Andrews Academy, as well as two groups of inclusion students from Derby College, Broomfield Hall. The students are able to count what they learn through the project as part of their work experience, or towards their Duke of Edinburgh Award if they are taking part. The Enabled Centre also accesses the project with the individuals who they support, as does Long Eaton Day Service who recently became a part of the project too.

Plot to Plate has a second plot at Little Chester and funding bids are currently being submitted to help make the space accessible. If successful, this part of the project will create a sensory area where young people and their families or carers, will be able to enjoy a stimulating environment whilst learning about conservation, wildlife and the environment.

The Veg Box

After donating surplus produce the year before, Plot to Plate opened its latest initiative in 2024: The Veg Box. The idea is simple. Plot to Plate initiated a collaboration with other plot holders on site and created a primary drop off point known as The Veg Box, for any surplus fruit and vegetables. As produce is dropped off, Plot to Plate makes sure that is collected by other charitable organisations & community groups.

Throughout 2024, around a ton of fresh produce was collected and redistributed to local lunch clubs, community kitchens and food banks including Age UK, A2C (Alive to Community), Friendship Circle & Café, Thrivemind Village, Flourish & Thrive and Heart of the Park Café.

All of the supported groups have either made freshly prepared meals and desserts or given out the fresh produce to those who they support. All for free!

The partnership between Plot to Plate and Thrivemind Village also massively contributed to TMV being successful in its bid to secure funding for a community fridge. This will be up and running in 2024, providing yet another point of access to free, fresh produce in the heart of the city of Derby.

Hopefully, The Veg Box will continue its success into 2025 and beyond, helping to keep food waste down and tackle food poverty head on.

Take a look here to see what the members have been up to https://www.facebook.com/disabledgrowers
Contact Lee on 01332 242202 or email info@disabilitydirect.com