Reading Food Growing Network
What we do
RFGN runs gardening sessions at two gardens in Reading – the NHS Oasis Garden beside the Royal Berkshire Hospital and the Holy Brook Nook Community Garden, just a short stroll from the town centre. Both gardens encourage local people to grow fruit and vegetables, with the emphasis on sustainability and having fun.
The regular tutor-led sessions teach the essential skills required to grow your own fruit and vegetables. Sessions have a relaxed atmosphere that nurtures friendships, breaks down language barriers and helps develop a sense of community. These are open to adults of any age and no gardening knowledge is required. All sessions are free.
Sessions
NHS Oasis Garden
RFGN runs two sessions a week in the NHS Oasis Garden – on Tuesdays and Saturdays, 10 am to 12 noon. The garden has a large greenhouse, so sessions can continue whatever the weather. Both sessions are for adults and can support individuals with mild mental health issues. The garden is on various bus routes and cyclists can use the NHS facilities to park their bike; parking in the neighbouring streets is limited. There is an accessible toilet on site. Pre-booking is required.
Holy Brook Nook Community Garden
RFGN runs regular sessions on Fridays at the Holy Brook Nook Community Garden – 1–3 pm from October to March and 3–5 pm during April to September. The sessions are suitable for adults and families, and can support individuals with mild mental health issues. The site is wheelchair accessible. It has a compost toilet but this is not accessible. The garden does not have a bad weather shelter so sessions may be cancelled due to bad weather. The Holy Brook Nook Community Garden is easily reached by bus, on foot or by bike, but parking in the neighbouring roads is limited. Pre-booking is recommended.
Join us
For further information or to attend a session, see the Food4families website, or email us: food4families@readingfoodgrowingnetwork.org.uk
