About the Organisation
www.redcatchcommunitygarden.com
Redcatch Community Garden (RCG) is located in Knowle, South Bristol, an area that faces significant social and economic challenges. Knowle West is among the 10% most deprived areas in the UK, with higher-than-average rates of health issues, low-income households, and young people not in education or employment. Many families also have limited access to green space.
RCG plays a crucial role in addressing these challenges by providing a welcoming, inclusive space for the local community. Every week, around 150 local school children visit for outdoor educational activities, and we run holiday clubs offering food and activities for children eligible for free school meals.
Our activities include gardening, messy play, cookery, and crafting sessions. We also offer art therapy for people living with dementia and their carers, as well as children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). We provide courses for wellbeing, employability, and confidence-building, along with Tai Chi and other fitness classes for older adults.
RCG is deeply embedded in the community and responds to its evolving needs. We offer free, healthy meals to anyone in need, and our organic produce and handmade goods are sold on-site, with a focus on sustainable food-growing practices. Our community events, such as silent discos and artisan markets, raise vital funds while bringing people together.
We serve Filwood, Bristol’s second most deprived ward, and receive around 200,000 visitors annually. Many of our visitors are still dealing with the effects of the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis. We are proud to be seen as a “lifeline” by our community.
Our dedicated team includes 21 staff members (12 FTE) and over 50 volunteers, many of whom have lived experience with food insecurity and mental health challenges. Together, we’re fostering a resilient, connected, and supportive community.
Request details:
An important income generating asset (60%) of the organisation, is that of its current all year-round food and drinks trailer. But In order to meet the ever-growing need of this vital project, RCG has been granted planning permission for an 80 squared metre single story cafe in the grounds of our community garden.
They are therefore seeking pro bono architectural support to make this vital asset come to life.
Timeline:
06.06.2025