Young and old stay active at The Albany

Normally, if a kid comes home covered in mud, it’s a nightmare for the parents.

But youngsters can get their hands dirty and learn how to grow and cook their own food at sessions running at a community garden.

The garden at The Albany, a multi-purpose arts centre in Deptford, is hosting regular gardening and food growing workshops for older people, young people and adults with learning disabilities.

The outdoor space will also be used for community events where residents can come together, learn new skills and pick up plant and seeds to grow at home.

The Albany’s chief executive Gavin Barlow said: “We’ve had wonderful feedback from residents who said coming to the garden, taking part in activities with others and getting their hands in the soil helped them to feel connected and to focus on something other than Covid.

“We’re in a very urban area with lots of tower blocks, so having an outdoor space where people can come to learn new skills, make and grow things or just get some calm and peace has a hugely positive impact on the community.”

During lockdown, the garden space came into its own as a venue for artistic events, shows and music performances for families, as well as providing a vital outdoor meeting space.

More information is available at www.thealbany.org.uk/visit-our-venues/the-albany-garden-2/

Pictured: Elderly and young alike enjoy the activities at The Albany