A team from Refugee Futures has spent a day helping Nine Yards prepare its community allotments for winter and next year’s growing season.

The volunteers rolled up their sleeves to move soil, clear growing beds and tackle practical jobs around the site. The work will help get the allotments ready for the colder months and for planting again next year.

Sharing photographs of the visit, Nine Yards thanked everyone at Refugee Futures for their energy and enthusiasm. “It's amazing what we can achieve when people come together!” the charity said.

Community growing across Teesside

Nine Yards is a Tees Valley environmental charity that brings people together through projects focused on food, nature, and community . The organisation was established as Middlesbrough Environment City in 1992 and has a long with the former Nature’s World site in Acklam.

Its community growing work helps residents learn practical skills, spend time outdoors and connect with others. The charity grows local fruit and vegetables using regenerative methods, with produce used in cooking sessions and shared through its network of Eco Shops.

One of its projects, Communities Growing Together, is funded by The National Lottery Community Fund and based around Sandy Flatts Community Allotment. It offers volunteering sessions, training and community gatherings, with a focus on growing, confidence and reducing isolation.

Volunteering that builds connections

Refugee Futures is a Stockton-on-Tees charity supporting refugees and people seeking asylum. Its volunteering programme connects people with opportunities to contribute locally, meet others and develop skills.

Through its Action Asylum , small groups take part in community activities including environmental projects, events and practical support for other organisations. Refugee Futures says volunteering can also help people improve their English, gain confidence and feel more connected to the places where they live.

The allotment visit offered a straightforward example of what that can look like in practice: a shared task, a few pairs of muddy boots and progress before winter sets in.

Get involved

Anyone interested in community growing or outdoor volunteering can find out more through Nine Yards’ community growing programme. Details of opportunities for refugees and people seeking asylum are available from Refugee Futures.