Flower Pod Newark Thriving with RHS Award!

Flower Pod, News November 15th, 2025

We were thrilled to hear that Flower Pod Newark has been awarded a Level 4 – Thriving rating in the Royal Horticultural Society and Friends of East Midlands in Bloom Competition, under the It’s Your Neighbourhood scheme. As a first-time entrant, this is an outstanding achievement!

The award recognises progress in horticultural quality, community participation and environmental responsibility. It reflects the hard work and dedication of everyone involved – clients, volunteers and staff – who have helped transform the site into a flourishing garden and community hub. Flower Pod Newark is more than a garden. It is a place where adults with learning disabilities can learn new skills, build confidence and enjoy friendships. Every raised bed and every tree planted tells a story of inclusion and care.

Recent projects include planting apple trees as part of the Hawtonville Community Tree Project, alongside activities such as Apple Wassailing, which brought laughter, music and a sense of tradition to the site. Centre Manager Samantha said: “Flower Pod Newark is delighted to be part of this joint venture with the Woodland Trust; creating lovely environments and much needed green space within Hawtonville.”

Since Reach took over in 2020, the two-acre allotment site has grown to include ponds, polytunnels, an orchard, wildflower meadows and accessible paths. Volunteers have added gazebos and a bird hide, creating spaces that are safe and welcoming. Flower Pod Newark’s success is a shared achievement. Everyone who has supported, volunteered or simply visited has helped make this possible. If you would like to get involved or support our work, find our contact details here.