At Redcatch Community Garden (RCG), we’re all about creating an inclusive, vibrant space where people feel valued, supported and engaged. Our response to the demand we received as a safe and familiar outdoor space deepened after the lockdowns when we saw the need for a safe space for older adults. Today, 100% of our board members are over 63, and 30% of our staff are over 62—many of whom started as volunteers. Reflecting on the past few years, we’re proud of how RCG has become both a sanctuary and a hub of fun and opportunity for older adults.
It All Started with Art Therapy...
In 2021, thanks to St Monica Trust funding, we launched Art Together, an Art Therapy group for isolated older adults. What began as a small project quickly became a haven, especially for people living with dementia and their carers. Now in its fourth year and recently extended into it's fifth, Art Together attendees will now be supported beyond their therapy to explore nature, food and growing through our recently won Climate and Disability commission.
Smashing Stereotypes with our Over-50s Disco
We believe that age is just a number and our over-50s disco—one of our most popular events—proves just that! This regular event challenges stereotypes, bringing local people together to dance, connect and celebrate. With music, laughter, and a lively atmosphere, our disco is a highlight for older community members who welcome the chance to dance close to home to tunes they grew up with.
Community Lunch: Conversations across generations
Our weekly Community Lunch, currently funded by the Bristol Local Food Fund, celebrates fresh, Garden-grown produce and intergenerational connection. Younger adults and young people from our Tuesday gardening group help with harvesting and setup, creating a welcoming atmosphere for older guests to enjoy a healthy meal and each other’s company.
A Focus on Health: Tai Chi in the Garden
As a trusted partner, RCG engages with the community on health matters. Recently, we were asked by the NHS South Bristol Locality Partnership to explore ways to help older people prevent falls. Many recommended Tai Chi, and as a result, we now offer affordable Tai Chi classes every Friday. These classes, at two different levels, bring attendees remarkable benefits in balance, confidence and wellbeing.
With sessions like our regular Green Social Prescribing offerings, Art Together, Tai Chi, Knitting and Crochet, our over-50s disco and a strong support system, RCG is breaking down barriers, smashing stereotypes and providing older people with meaningful ways to connect and grow.
Want to join us as an attendee or a volunteer or both? Please get in touch via our enquiry forms or by emailing our Volunteer Co-Ordinator, Becks, at rebecca@redcatchcg.com. We hope to see you at the Garden soon!
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