A volunteer-led community wellbeing garden in Cwmbran, known as Gardd O Gobaith or 'The Garden of Hope', has been nominated for a prestigious national award, recognising its transformative impact on local mental health and inclusivity.
From Wasteland to Sanctuary
Gardd O Gobaith, nominated by Bron Afon Social Housing, has been shortlisted in the Travis Perkins Managed Services 'Better Together' Awards. This initiative is one of only four projects across the UK to be considered for the esteemed 'We Care' Award, which celebrates efforts that go beyond the call of duty to foster unwavering support and inclusivity within communities.
The garden was created by volunteers who turned a derelict wasteland area into a vital sanctuary, now featuring a log cabin meeting space, a vegetable garden, and an upcycling shed. Specifically designed to be inclusive, the site offers crucial mental health support for neurodiverse groups and includes fully wheelchair-accessible gardening plots, making it a lifeline for Cwmbran residents.
Award Ceremony and Potential Grant
The winners of the 'Better Together' Awards will be announced at a ceremony held at the world-famous Silverstone Circuit on March 5. If successful, Bron Afon will receive a £5,000 grant from the Travis Perkins Legacy Fund, which could further enhance the garden's facilities and outreach programmes.
Molly Harris, account manager for South West and Wales from Travis Perkins Managed Services, praised the project, stating: "Gardd O Gobaith is a shining example of the power of community. To see a wasteland transformed into such a vital resource for mental health and inclusivity is truly heart-warming. This project embodies the spirit of our 'Better Together' awards, proving that when we come together to support one another, we can change lives."
Community Impact and Sponsorship
The garden has become a cornerstone for community wellbeing, providing not only gardening opportunities but also a safe space for social interaction and mental health support. The 'Better Together' We Care Awards are sponsored by ProSolve, a leading global supplier to the construction and civil engineering sectors, highlighting the cross-sector support for such community-driven initiatives.
This nomination underscores the importance of volunteer efforts in addressing local needs and promoting environmental and social sustainability. Gardd O Gobaith stands as a testament to how collaborative action can revitalise neglected spaces and foster a stronger, more inclusive community in Cwmbran and beyond.
