Growing Places Berkshire

Growing Places is a Wokingham-based charity that supports local adults with learning disabilities through horticultural activities. Its aim is to help people gain independence, learn practical skills, build confidence, improve wellbeing and form friendships in a welcoming environment. At its market garden in Turgis Green, participants grow and care for plants with facilities and equipment provided by the charity. Activities take place under the care and supervision of its partner organisation, Optalis. Participants can also tend their own plots, choosing what to grow for personal enjoyment and consumption.

Growing Places sells its produce to the public at the Acorn Community Centre on Fernlea Drive in Woosehill, open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Products include seasonal flowers, spring bulbs, vegetables, herbs, patio pots, hanging baskets and handmade Christmas wreaths and table decorations. Plant sales help fund the charity’s work, alongside donations and grants. Run entirely by volunteers, Growing Places directs its income towards seeds, plants, tools, equipment and improvements to the farm, helping more local people benefit from meaningful gardening experiences.