High Sheriff commends Petworth’s Community Wellbeing Garden on Its 20th Anniversary

The High Sheriff joins the gardeners at work in the Petworth Community Garden

placeholder image — The High Sheriff joins the gardeners at work in the Petworth Community Garden

Petworth’s Community Wellbeing Garden, a much-loved haven for local residents, was delighted to welcome the High Sheriff of West Sussex, Dr Tim Fooks, on a recent visit marking the garden’s 20th anniversary.

Dr Fooks, whose focus during his year of office includes supporting and promoting good mental health and reducing loneliness, spent time with participants and volunteers, learning how the garden’s therapeutic horticulture sessions nurture both wellbeing and community connection. As members sowed seeds, tended beds and shared a meal from the harvest, he saw first-hand how the garden’s calm, inclusive environment helps people to thrive.

Reflecting on his visit, Dr Fooks said: “I was hugely impressed by the Community Wellbeing Garden - by its beauty, its sense of inclusion, and the great benefit it clearly brings to the wellbeing of those who are part of its membership. For twenty years it has quietly transformed lives, fostering friendship, purpose and resilience through the simple but powerful act of gardening together.”

The High Sheriff also took time to speak with members, including Scott, who demonstrated remarkable speed and skill in pricking out lettuces - a task that clearly brought him great pride and satisfaction.

Young gardener, Primrose Edwards, is delighted to demonstrate the Community Garden's produce

Founded in 2005 by Kate Green, the Community Wellbeing Garden began as a project to share organic produce with those in need. It has since developed into a registered charity offering inclusive sessions in therapeutic horticulture, rural crafts and sustainable living. The beautiful, wheelchair-accessible garden now welcomes people of all ages and abilities, especially those living with mental and physical health challenges, disability, or social isolation.

The charity runs a range of successful projects such as Learn & Grow, Men’s Shed, Thriving Thursdays and Plot to Plate, which foster wellbeing, skill building and community integration. It also provides practical support through initiatives such as Harvest Food Deliveries for households facing economic hardship.

The garden relies on the generous support of volunteers and the community to keep it thriving. This year, to celebrate two decades of community impact, the garden has launched its “20 for 20” campaign, aiming to raise £20,000 to secure its future. Donations can be made via the charity's Local Giving page.

New volunteers and local business partners are always welcome. To get involved, visit www.communitywellbeinggarden.org or email [email protected].