National Allotments Week, a celebration of community gardening and green spaces, is approaching with a powerful message for the UK. As the week kicks off on Monday 11 August, the National Allotment Society has released new findings from their latest national survey. This survey reveals that allotments are more than just spaces for growing food, but are also tools for improving overall wellbeing.
The survey, which gathered responses from nearly 2,000 plot holders across the UK, paints a compelling and data-led picture of allotments as vital green infrastructure. The results show that allotments have a significant impact on mental and physical health, as well as promoting social connections and healthy eating habits.
According to the survey, nearly 63% of respondents rated the impact of their allotment on their mental wellbeing a perfect 10, with 91.9% scoring it 8 or higher. Furthermore, 88.1% rated the physical health benefits 8 or above, with many citing improved strength, mobility, and energy. In terms of healthy eating, 89.2% of respondents said their allotment helped them eat more fresh produce, often a wider variety than they would consume otherwise. Additionally, 80.3% reported that their allotment helped them build social connections, with many describing their site as a “community in itself.”
One respondent wrote, “It’s not just about growing – it’s about belonging.”
While the benefits of allotments are evident, the survey also highlights pressures and inequalities in the current system. The results show that 19.3% of plot holders waited over two years for a plot, and 48.5% waited more than six months, indicating a growing demand and uneven provision. The survey also revealed over 50 different pricing structures, ranging from under £10 to over £100, with little correlation to plot size or site facilities. Surprisingly, nearly half of all sites offer no shared community space, despite strong evidence that social interaction enhances wellbeing.
In light of these findings, the National Allotment Society is calling on policymakers, local authorities, and landowners to recognize the value of allotments for public health, food security, and community resilience. They urge these stakeholders to ensure that allotments are protected, expanded, and accessible for future generations.
Mike Farrell, Chairman of the National Allotment Society, says, “Allotments are more than just green patches in our towns and cities – they are lifelines for thousands of people. They help us stay active, eat better, connect with others, and care for the environment. In the face of rising demand, we must act now to preserve and invest in these vital spaces before they’re lost.”
The full survey report is now available to mark the start of National Allotments Week and can be accessed on the National Allotment Society’s website. It is also available on Google Drive at: NAW SURVEY REPORT- P.pdf. The National Allotment Society urges everyone to take part in National Allotments Week and to recognize the value and importance of these green spaces in our communities.
Distributed by https://pressat.co.uk/
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