King’s Trust Students Create Community Garden for Glenroyd House

Young people taking part in a King’s Trust employability programme at a local college have helped create a new community garden area for residents and visitors at Glenroyd House in Consett.

The project was completed as part of the 12-week programme, which supports young people aged 16 to 25 by helping them develop confidence, teamwork, communication and employability skills.

As part of their community project, the students chose to create an outdoor seating area that can be enjoyed by local residents throughout the year. They also helped establish growing spaces within raised beds, with produce intended to support the local food bank.

To bring the project to life, the group raised more than £700 through fundraising activities, including bag packing at Morrisons. Additional support was provided by local Freemasons and other members of the community.

The completed garden was officially unveiled during a special ceremony at Glenroyd House on 12 June, attended by supporters of the project and members of the local community. The opening included a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by local MP Liz Twist.

The project forms part of the practical community work undertaken by participants on the King’s Trust programme, giving young people the opportunity to make a positive difference while developing valuable life and workplace skills.

Organisers said the project demonstrated the students’ commitment, teamwork and determination, while leaving a lasting benefit for people who use Glenroyd House and the wider community.

The new seating area and growing space will continue to provide a welcoming environment for visitors, while supporting local community initiatives through the produce grown on site.