GOOD TO GROW NEWS
Growing Our Own Food in Scarborough: Results from our survey
In December and January we asked local people to share their thoughts on food growing. We discovered a clear desire to grow more food locally, together.
Of the 116 people living in Scarborough and nearby areas who took part in the survey, some grow a lot of their own food, some grow what they can when they can, and many don’t grow at all yet – but want to.
The biggest barriers aren’t a lack of interest, they’re practical: not enough space, not enough time, lack of confidence or knowledge, cost of getting started, or concerns about physical ability.
The good news is that there are plenty of experienced and knowledgeable food growers in Scarborough who are committed to helping people to overcome these barriers.
Growing food is important to people for a variety of reasons. Survey respondents rated the benefits of food growing highly and talked about better mental health, fresher, tastier food, children learning where food comes from, feeling proud and more in control, building friendships and reducing loneliness, and caring for the environment.
One respondent summed it up perfectly: “Growing food brings people together and gives you something positive you can actually do.”
We already had a hunch about this and the survey has confirmed it. Scarborough has the skills, enthusiasm and creativity to grow much more food locally.
What we need now is: better connections between growers, shared resources, more accessible growing spaces, and a welcoming pathway for beginners.
The Good to Grow project is now hosting regular monthly get togethers of Scarborough food growers where we will be working on developing these things. Anyone is welcome to come along. They happen on the second Thursday of every month from 1.30pm to 3.30pm at The Street, Scarborough. Feel free to just turn up or email, text or call David to find out more 07799 646300
This isn’t just about food – it’s about healthier, happier people, stronger communities and a more resilient town.
