Down to Earth
Connecting People with Nature and Community
Introduction: Down to Earth Hull is a Community Interest Company dedicated to fostering connections between people, nature, and the community. Located within the Newland Avenue allotment site, Down to Earth is developing a Community Woodland to run a variety of nature-based activities, including food growing, green woodworking, forest management, and crafts. These activities are designed for both specific groups and the general public, providing a space where individuals of all ages and abilities can engage with the natural environment, learn new skills, and enhance their physical and mental well-being.
Our Mission: At Down to Earth Hull, our mission is to improve the physical and mental health and well-being of the local community by connecting people with nature and each other. We aim to empower individuals with new knowledge and skills, foster a sense of community, and promote environmental stewardship through hands-on, nature-based activities.
What We Do: Down to Earth Hull offers a wide range of workshops, volunteer opportunities, and community events designed to engage people with nature and sustainable living practices. Our activities take place at ‘The Plot,’ our base located at the south of the Edgecumbe Street allotment site, which includes mature woodland, a tree nursery, wildflower meadow, nature pond, food growing areas, a mini orchard, and a polytunnel.
Workshops: We run a series of workshops throughout the year, each designed to provide practical introductions to various topics related to conservation, gardening, and sustainable living. These 2.5-hour sessions are focused on hands-on learning and are open to adults of all ages and abilities. Topics include food growing in small spaces, natural feeds and pesticides, building hedgehog homes, and capturing the outdoors through photography. Workshops are priced at £10 per session, with tickets available through Eventbrite or our Facebook page.
Volunteer Sessions: We offer regular volunteer sessions at ‘The Plot,’ where community members can get involved in a variety of activities, from tree care and landscaping to preparing and planting spring bulbs. These sessions are held on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday mornings, and are open to all who wish to contribute to the upkeep of our community woodland and gardens. Volunteers are warmly welcomed, and no prior experience is necessary.
Family Workshops: During school holidays, we offer family-friendly workshops aimed at children up to 11 years old. These workshops include activities such as planting for bees and butterflies, Easter egg hunts, animal trails, and various craft activities. We strive to keep costs minimal, with a suggested budget of £5 per child, and no charge for accompanying adults or children under 3 years old.
Who We Serve: Down to Earth Hull serves the local community by offering inclusive, accessible activities that encourage engagement with nature. Our workshops and volunteer opportunities are open to individuals of all ages and abilities, and we are particularly focused on providing opportunities for those who may benefit from the physical and mental health improvements that come from spending time outdoors and connecting with the natural world.
A Collaborative Approach: Our work at Down to Earth Hull is grounded in collaboration. We work closely with local organisations, volunteers, and participants to create a welcoming, inclusive environment where everyone can contribute and learn. Our community woodland and garden spaces are developed and maintained through the collective efforts of our staff, volunteers, and workshop participants, fostering a strong sense of community ownership and pride.
Our Facilities: ‘The Plot’ at the Edgecumbe Street allotment site is a one-acre community space that features mature woodland, a tree nursery, a wildflower meadow, a nature pond, food growing areas, a mini orchard, and a polytunnel. These diverse environments provide a rich backdrop for our activities and workshops, offering participants the opportunity to engage with nature in a variety of ways. While we strive to make our site as accessible as possible, we acknowledge that parts of the site may present challenges for those with mobility issues. We encourage anyone with specific needs to contact us in advance so we can discuss how best to accommodate them.
Community and Impact: Down to Earth Hull is making a significant impact on the local community by providing opportunities for people to engage with nature, learn new skills, and connect with others. Our activities promote physical and mental well-being, environmental awareness, and community cohesion. Through our workshops, volunteer sessions, and family events, we are helping to create a more connected, resilient, and environmentally conscious community.
Events: In addition to our regular workshops and volunteer sessions, Down to Earth Hull hosts special events throughout the year. These events include tree planting days, nature photography competitions, and educational talks on topics such as tree care and biodiversity. Our events provide additional opportunities for the community to come together, celebrate nature, and contribute to the stewardship of our shared environment.
Supporting Our Work: Down to Earth Hull is supported by community involvement and funding from grants, including those from the National Lottery Community Fund. We are always seeking additional support to continue and expand our work. Whether through attending our workshops, volunteering, or making a donation, your support helps us to maintain and develop our community woodland and deliver valuable activities to the Hull community. For more information about how you can get involved or to book a workshop, please visit our Eventbrite page, Facebook page, or contact us via email at down-2-earth@outlook.com.
Additional Information: For any general enquiries about Down to Earth Hull, or to discuss accessibility needs, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are committed to making our site and activities as welcoming and inclusive as possible. Together, we can cultivate a healthier, more connected community through the power of nature.