An introduction to Roots Hawkwell CIC
My name is Lou, and I am the CEO and 'chief volunteer' for Roots Hawkwell CIC! I set up Roots in March 2024 with a vision to make a real difference to my local community. I am a qualified Health & Wellbeing Coach, NLP Coach and life skills facilitator. I am also passionate about gardening and sustainability, craft and holistic wellbeing, and empowering people to be the best version of themselves with both support and education.
Early on I managed to secure a long term lease on a wonderful disused scout hall in Hawkwell, Essex and have been running several groups in this space (Currently facilitating about 30-40 people per week in this space).
The project I am fundraising for
Moving forwards the dream has always been to secure investment for the garden area so we (me and some amazing volunteers), can transform this space by undertaking a significant amount of work to this outside area.
The aim for the garden space is to clear all of the overgrowth, install secure perimeter fencing and put a surface down to make it safe, secure and accessible for all visitors regardless of age, mental capacity and physical capabilities. Install raised vegetable beds, cut flower beds and a greenhouse to educate about homegrown and the positive environmental impact we can make by living more sustainably. Then finally, we plan to install a small fire pit area in the middle for use for our groups, as well as install bird boxes and nature areas to encourage wildlife to the area and ensure we leave no negative environmental impact to the space.
The area will be used for multiple groups of various age categories, offering education, physical movement and low impact exercise, opportunities to learn about sustainability and home grown as well as building friendships and improving resilience and wellbeing.