A community smallholding that promotes sustainable food growing and outdoor learning has received funding for a new project.
Build & Bridge is the latest initiative to be launched by Grow Jersey from its base in Sion and will enable Islanders to learn new skills, work together and feel part of something purposeful.
During the 20-week hands-on scheme, participants will learn basic construction and woodworking skills using up-cycled materials that would otherwise enter Jersey’s waste stream.
They will work collaboratively to design and build benches, seedling tables and other practical items for the Grow site that support community food production.
Grow Jersey was awarded the funding through the government’s Connect Me: Connecting Our Communitiesgrant scheme to deliver a new community programme designed to improve wellbeing, build confidence and strengthen practical life skills.
The programme is intentionally inclusive and accessible, particularly for individuals who may be socially isolated, lacking confidence or who have had limited opportunities to use tools, learn practical skills or take part in structured community activity. Sessions take place outdoors at Grow’s 13‑vergee site and combine gentle physical activity with meaningful social connection.
“Bridge & Build is about more than making things,” said Dave Crocker, a founding member of Grow Jersey. “It’s about giving people the chance to learn new skills, work together, and feel part of something purposeful. Time outdoors, shared activity and the satisfaction of creating something useful all contribute to improved wellbeing.”
The project will also support Jersey’s circular economy by using reclaimed timber and salvaged materials sourced through local partnerships. Funding will be reinvested locally through the purchase of tools, consumables and materials from Jersey suppliers, and by providing paid opportunities for local practitioners to support delivery
Grow Jersey is a community smallholding based in the north of St Helier that provides opportunities for school groups, charitable organisations and members of the general public to engage in sustainable food growing and outdoor learning.
More information about the Bridge & Build scheme is available by emailing hello@growjersey.co.uk.
