Innovation grant from Barnsley Council helps church's kitchen garden plans take root

An unused plot of land behind a Barnsley church hall has been transformed into a new community garden to grow supplies for a food pantry.

The kitchen garden has been developed at St Helen’s Church Hall in Thurnscoe thanks to funding from Barnsley Council’s Public Health Innovation Fund and the dedication of local partners.

The project began as an idea from Dearne North councillor Cllr Wendy Cain and the Dearne Area Team and demonstrates the power of collaboration and community spirit.

The garden space is designed to be accessible and welcoming, providing an opportunity for volunteers to grow fresh produce that will directly supply the community pantry located in the Church Hall, helping people in the Dearne to eat healthily and sustainably.

Contractors Helm's Fencing and Advanced Landscapes have installed of four accessible raised beds, a shed and benches, to ensure the space is practical and inviting for all who use it.

The garden is a welcome addition to the offer at the church hall, which had a new roof installed earlier this year thanks to funding from Barnsley Council’s Love Where You Live programme.

As well as the food pantry, the busy community hub is used all week for various groups and activities, including a youth club, warm space, concerts, bingo, book sales, volunteer training, CPR training, rehabilitation and evenings of fellowship.

Cllr Wendy Cain, who is also Barnsley Council’s Cabinet Spokesperson for Public Health and Communities, said: “This initiative is more than just a garden – it’s a symbol of community spirit, joint working and sustainable living.

“By repurposing unused land, the project will help tackle food insecurity, promote healthy eating, and create a hub for local residents and volunteers to come together.

“This project embodies the values at the heart of our Love Where You Live campaign, which is all about getting involved in your community, and working together to build stronger, more connected communities.

“It will make a real difference to local families and strengthen community ties.”

The Vicar of St Helen’s, Rev Sarah Maughan, said: “We’re so pleased to see the garden taking shape thanks to the hard work of everyone involved in the project.

“Following the Love Where You Live investment that has made the hall watertight and secure, this fresh funding means we’re able to produce our own fresh food to help the community stay healthy.

“The garden is now ready for volunteers to start planting and growing, and we look forward to seeing it flourish in the months ahead.”

For more information on this project and how to get involved, please contact St Helen’s Church or email Barnsley Council Dearne Area Team at dearneteam@barnsley.gov.uk.

Find out more about Love Where You Live at barnsley.gov.uk/LoveWhereYouLive.