"Growing Well" is a sustainable local food growing business based at Low Sizergh Farm in South Lakeland due to start Spring 2005 with support from the Cumbria Fells and Dales LEADER+ Programme. It aims to employ people who have suffered from mental health problems in the past and who are having difficulty going back to work. In partnership with Kendal College, employees will receive horticultural training and will grow food in fields rented from Low Sizergh. It is hoped that the company will achieve economic sustainability through sales at Low Sizergh farm shop, Howbarrow farm shop, Kendal farmers market and added value products (such as pre-packed salad bags, juices and baby foods). Environmental sustainability will be achieved through providing local organic produce (therefore fewer food miles), a wind-powered field site, field structures heated by wood, and use of a vehicle with zero CO2 emissions. Community sustainability will be gained through connecting communities with their food, supporting collaboration between local businesses and providing employment for a marginalised community group.

For further information, please contact Beren Aldridge at
Low Sizergh Farm, Low Sizergh, Kendal, LA8 8AH. Telephone: 015395 61777
Email: beren@growingwell.co.uk

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