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Gardening Club: Planting Progress at Milldale Walk

This week, the team headed to our Milldale Walk allotment full of energy and ready to get stuck in. With tools packed by DLE, AW, and PH, the group got to work as soon as they arrived.

Two men in the poly tunnel at the allotment. One of them is scooping some compost from a tub.

DLE and PH focused on preparing the beds, while AW joined in planting four new rows of potatoes. AB and AW also made great progress with weeding, helping to keep the plot tidy and well cared for.

A second picture of two men in the poly tunnel at the allotment. One of them is scooping some compost from a tub.
A man sat inside on a chair next to a shelf of seedlings.

In the polytunnel, TG and John sowed foxglove seeds and watered the growing plants. Despite the heat, the team worked efficiently and with real focus.

A view of the allotment - a large bed freshly dug
Two men inside at Enablement Care. One is holding a spray bottle by the indoor seedlings.

Back at Enablement Care, lunch was enjoyed together, with AB helping to set the table. The day wrapped up with TG and John tending to the micro garden, where signs of the next harvest are already appearing.

Although we missed a few familiar faces this week, the group pulled together and made great progress.

If you are looking for engaging, supportive outdoor activities for individuals with additional needs, CET’s Gardening Club provides hands-on sessions that build skills, confidence, and connection.

Contact us to find out more.

Lots of seed trays on the floor at the allotment.
Close up of rhubarb seedlings.
Lots of seed trays on the floor at the allotment.
Lots of seed trays on the floor at the allotment.
Close up of Brussels seedlings
Lots of seed trays on the floor at the allotment.
a hand spraying seedlings indoors
Lots of seed trays on the floor at the allotment.
A number of seedlings in 3 trays
A number of seedlings in 4 trays
A man spraying seedlings
A man holding seedlings in a tray
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Gardening Club Update: Sunshine, Teamwork, and Growing Success

A gardening club member on the allotment leaning on his spade.

With the sun shining and spring in full swing, it was the perfect day for a Gardening Club.

A view over the allotment and a freshly dig bed.
A man standing at the side of a large raised allotment bed.

The team made fantastic progress at the allotment. In the polytunnel, DK, TG, and Lisa worked together to care for our flower seedlings, focusing on marigolds which we are growing for our summer fayre in July. The polytunnel is already full of colour and promise, and it is exciting to see how quickly everything is developing.

3 gardening club members in the polytunnel at the allotment.

The tomato plants are thriving and have now been moved into larger pots. Meanwhile, our other seedlings are showing strong signs of growth, a real reward for the care and attention they have been given.

Out on the main plot, PH prepared the soil for another batch of potatoes. AW and DLE took on the physically demanding job of breaking up the compacted ground, and after plenty of hard work, they successfully planted a new row of parsnips and swedes. Support worker Lee was on hand throughout the morning, assisting with digging, watering, and making sure the team stayed on track.

A man leaning on his fork at the allotment

After a productive few hours outdoors, we returned to Enablement Care for a well-earned and delicious lunch.

A man inside, stood next to some shelving with small gardening tools on it

In the afternoon, our focus shifted to the ATTFE College “Grow Together” project. With several residents taking part, Lee guided the group through the process of measuring out seeds, filling compost pots, and planting carefully and thoughtfully. It was a fantastic way to end the day, combining education, collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose.

Enablement Care resident sat in her wheelchair next to a recently potted-up planter.

By the end of the session, everyone felt that special kind of tiredness that comes from a good day’s work. There was a real sense of achievement across the group.

Thank you to Lisa and Lee for their support and guidance in making the day run smoothly.

If you are a professional looking for meaningful activities that support individuals with additional needs, our Gardening Club offers hands-on experiences that build confidence, skills, and wellbeing.

Get in touch to find out more about how to get involved.

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A busy March day at the allotment

It was a glorious day for gardening, with blue skies and warm spring sunshine, the perfect weather for getting stuck into some hard work at the allotment. The team included AW, AB, DaE, P, TG, and DK, with support from Anthony, Lisa, and Louise.

veg growing in a bed

We began by gathering tools, with AW and P taking the lead on loading them into the minibus. Once at the allotment, everyone quickly got to work. P focused on weeding to make space for more potatoes, while AB and DaE prepared the soil and planted two rows of carrots and one row of swedes. AB also kept the plot neat and tidy throughout the day with additional weeding.

soil with plant labels

Later on, AB and AW teamed up to collect plastic waste and tidy up the site, while DaE continued planting. Over in the polytunnel, DK and Lisa were busy sowing seeds for cucumbers, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, marigolds, and a few flowers with names tricky enough to need pronunciation guides! The warm tunnel is ideal for germination, so we’re hopeful for a healthy crop.

Seed tray with seedlings starting.

In the afternoon, the group came together to discuss the plot’s plans, what to plant next and how to maximise the space. With tools packed and everything cleared up, we headed back to Enablement Care.

soil in a seed tray with seedlings starting to show

Back on site, the last task was unloading and returning tools before everyone sat down for a well-earned lunch. AB helped set the table, and the group enjoyed pizza, pies, and Coca-Cola, with sponge and custard to finish.

It was a brilliant day of productivity, socialising, and teamwork. A highlight was seeing AB receive a well-deserved shoutout on Facebook and a certificate from our manager, April Parker, in recognition of her volunteering. It was a proud moment and a great confidence boost for her!

Two gardening club members

A big thank you to Lisa and Louise for their continued support, and to everyone who contributed to such a positive and productive day. The allotment is looking better than ever, and we’re excited to see what we can grow next.

The allotment club group of participants

🌿 Monday Gardening Club 🌿

🌿 Gardening Club 🌿

📅 Monday Mornings
🍽️ Optional lunch at Enablement Care afterwards (£1.50)

📍 Location:
🪴 Community Allotment or 🌳 Enablement Care Garden

💰 Gardening Club is FREE!
🫶 All are welcome!

ℹ️ For more information, contact:
📞 01623 397750
📧 info@challangect.co.uk

Note: Timings are approximate, location varies. Please call to confirm for each session.

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2025 Gardening Club: A Green Adventure Awaits!

Are you a gardening enthusiast or curious to give it a try? Our Gardening Club is back and better than ever! Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a complete beginner, we invite you to join us and cultivate community, wellness, and growth through the joys of gardening.

Promotional banner for CCT Community Enablement Team's Monday Gardening Club. The text reads 'Monday Gardening Club - Now Open to All!' in bold orange letters on a gradient blue-to-green background. Logos for CCT Community Enablement Team and Enablement Care are displayed at the bottom.
Promotional banner for CCT Community Enablement Team’s Monday Gardening Club. The text reads ‘Monday Gardening Club – Now Open to All!’ in bold orange letters on a gradient blue-to-green background. Logos for CCT Community Enablement Team and Enablement Care are displayed at the bottom.

When and Where

  • Every Monday
    • Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
    • Location (January): Either Enablement Care or the Community Hub.
    • Location (February onwards): Our beautiful allotment off Milldale Walk, Sutton-in-Ashfield, NG17 2DJ.

What to Expect

The Gardening Club is more than just planting seeds; it’s about:

  • Learning gardening skills in a relaxed and supportive environment.
  • Connecting with others in your local community who share your interests.
  • Spending time outdoors, which is great for both your mental and physical health.

Cost

  • Attendance: Completely free!
  • Optional Lunch at Enablement Care: Just £1.50 per meal.

Open to All

This year, we’re excited to announce that the Gardening Club is now open to the wider public! Everyone is welcome to join us in making the most of this rewarding and therapeutic activity.

Get in Touch

For more information or to join the group:

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow! Whether you’re joining us for January sessions at Enablement Care or gearing up to dig into the allotment come February, we can’t wait to see you there.

Let’s grow together – literally! 🌱

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🌟 Exciting News for 2025! 🌟

2025

We’ve got a fantastic line-up of activities planned for the new year, including:

🌿 Gardening Club – Get your hands dirty and grow something amazing!
🚶‍♂️ Walking Club – Explore the outdoors and stay active with friends.
🏠 Life Skills at the Community Hub – Learn something new and build confidence!

…and so much more to look forward to! 🎉

Keep an eye on our website for updates and details coming soon. Let’s make 2025 a year full of growth, fun, and connection! 🌟

Please get in touch if you’d like to join us!!

#CommunityActivities #GetInvolved #Exciting2025 #Gardening #Walking #LifeSkills

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A Festive Success at This Year’s Christmas Fair!

Santa Claus interacting with attendees at a lively Christmas celebration, with festive decorations, including a bulletin board and holiday posters, in the background.

What a fantastic turnout we had at this year’s Christmas Fayre! A huge thank you to everyone who came along and supported the event – you made it truly special.

We’d also like to give a big shoutout to Santa and his naughty elves for bringing some festive cheer (and a few giggles!). Of course, none of it would have been possible without the wonderful people who worked so hard behind the scenes to make it all happen – thank you for your dedication and effort.

A special highlight this year was seeing some of our service users getting involved with their own stalls. They sold some incredible handmade items, including cakes, book Christmas trees, and adorable hedgehogs. It was wonderful to see their creativity and hard work shining through.

The day was a team effort, and we couldn’t be prouder of everyone who contributed. Thank you all for making this year’s fair such a success – here’s to even more fun next year!

A bustling room with Christmas stalls and visitors browsing items. A woman in a Santa hat stands in the foreground, while others are engaged in conversation and shopping.
A table featuring handmade crafts, including folded book Christmas trees and hedgehogs with Santa hats, alongside a variety of festive cupcakes and treats.
A smiling woman wearing a Santa hat and a shimmering silver top, posing for the camera in a festive setting.
A display table with festive mugs, tumblers, and gift items, surrounded by Christmas decorations, including red tinsel hanging on the wall.
Santa Claus and elves entertaining a group of people in a festive room filled with holiday decorations and a television in the background.
An elf in a green costume dancing with a smiling older woman in a cosy room decorated with holiday-themed crafts and posters.
A cheerful elderly woman sitting in a chair, smiling at the camera while others in the room enjoy a festive gathering.
A room filled with people engaged in a holiday party, with some seated and others dancing. Festive hats, drinks, and snacks are visible on the tables.
Santa Claus interacting with attendees at a lively Christmas celebration, with festive decorations, including a bulletin board and holiday posters, in the background.
A group of people sitting in a cosy room near a large window decorated with festive ornaments. One person in a colourful Christmas jumper and Santa hat is sipping from a can, while others, wrapped in blankets, enjoy the holiday atmosphere. Tables in front of them hold cups, sweets, and small snacks.
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Gardening Club Update: Fresh Carrots and Progress!

Three Gardening Club members working on the allotment, using garden forks to dig and turn over the soil, under a clear blue sky.

Last week, members of the Gardening Club worked together to dig over most of the allotment. There’s a real sense of achievement in seeing all the progress we’ve made, and it’s wonderful to share that feeling as a group.

Even better, we harvested some fresh carrots – perfect to add to our winter meals. These moments spent tending to the soil, sharing stories, and enjoying the harvest make Gardening Club so special.

A view of the allotment with two Gardening Club members working in the background, surrounded by dug-over soil and wooden pallets.

It’s all about preparing for next year while enjoying the fruits (or veggies!) of our labour!

If you’d like to join us, please call 01623 397750 or speak to your Community Support Worker.

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Cooking Club at The Hub: A Delicious Wednesday

Two members of The Hub Cooking Club preparing ingredients at a table. One is sifting flour into a mixing bowl while the other looks on, both focused on their task. A small vase of sunflowers sits on the table, along with some chopped onions ready for cooking.

Wednesday at The Hub, we had a fantastic cooking session where everyone pitched in to create a classic comfort meal – Bangers and Mash followed by a tray bake berry crumble with custard. The session was led by Cayton and Louise, who made sure everyone got involved, and the results were outstanding! There’s something about cooking together that makes food taste even better, and this week was no exception.

If you’d like to join us, please call 01623 397750 or speak to your Community Support Worker

A member of The Hub Cooking Club preparing a berry crumble. She is holding a mixing bowl filled with crumble topping, sprinkling it over the tray bake. In the background, another member is stirring a pot on a portable stove, with a small vase of sunflowers adding a cheerful touch to the kitchen workspace.
A plate of bangers and mash served with mixed vegetables and rich onion gravy, garnished with freshly chopped chives. The sausages are golden brown, and the mashed potatoes are creamy, making for a classic, comforting meal.
A close-up of a serving of bangers and mash, featuring two sausages topped with rich onion gravy, creamy mashed potatoes, and a garnish of fresh chives. Mixed vegetables are placed alongside, adding a pop of color to this comforting meal.
A member of The Hub Cooking Club sitting at a table, smiling and enjoying a plate of bangers and mash with mixed vegetables. She is holding a fork, ready to dig in. The room has a bright leaf-patterned wallpaper, adding a cheerful backdrop to the scene.
A bowl of warm berry crumble topped with a generous layer of creamy custard. The dessert looks comforting and inviting, perfect for a sweet treat after a hearty meal.