Community planting events recognise vital role of green spaces with Billion Seed Challenge

Community planting events are being organised by Royal Voluntary Service as part of the Billion Seed Challenge (#BillionSeedChallenge) in which people across the UK are coming together to show a little love for their local green spaces which have played such an important part in our lives during the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns. The Billion Seed Challenge is a celebration of community spirit and the environment.

Events will take place on and around 30 October and include wildflower planting at Herristone Park in Manchester, seed and bulb planting at Braunstone Gate Community Garden in Leicester, and seed planting and seed bomb making at Willoughby Road Allotments in Boston and Springfields Festival Gardens in Spalding, and roadside verge planting in Wyberton, all in Lincolnshire.

Royal Voluntary Service activity coordinators are organising the Billion Seed Challenge community planting events as part of First Time for Everything, a programme designed by the charity and supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery to give people an opportunity to try something new, social and active for free in their local community.

“The past 18 months have shown us how important our local environment is. Whether it’s our window boxes and gardens or streets and local parks, our green spaces have supported our physical and mental wellbeing during challenging times. Inspired by how much we relied on it during lockdown, the Billion Seed Challenge is a great way for people to come together to brighten up the local area. We hope lots of local communities will want to join in.”
Fiona Longhurst, Director of Communications, Marketing and Fundraising at Royal Voluntary Service

According to new research by Royal Voluntary Service and supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, 38% of people aged 55 and over spent most of their time indoors during the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns. 44% said they now plan to spend as much time outdoors in the fresh air as possible.

“Giving new life to local green spaces is a fantastic way for local communities to come together, particularly when they have supported our physical and mental wellbeing during these challenging times. Thanks to support from players, these will be wonderful places for local people to enjoy come the spring.”
Laura Chow, Head of Charities, People’s Postcode Lottery

To take part in a local Royal Voluntary Service Billion Seed Challenge community planting event, contact the relevant activity coordinator below: