The allotments have been here a long time and were once more extensive than they are now. They pre-date much of the housing that now enclosed them.
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| Washbrook Allotments |
While the number of allotments has shrunk in recent years popular TV programs have made them quite fashionable again. This is a double edged sword for societies. Many like us have see an influx of new allotmenteers who get to the head of the waiting list and get a half plot only to do a lot of digging for a month or so before giving up when they realise that it is hard work and takes regular commitment. This leads to churn on some plots that never really get worked properly.
In order to tackle this issue our plot allocation officer developed a welcome pack detailing what needs to be done on the allotment and how much time it will take. We also offer new starters a more experienced mentor if they wish and committee members will regularly check on how they are doing.
We still suffered from churn. Again our plot allocation officer came up with a way to increase our retention by splitting some of the difficult plots into four 'Starter Plots'. These plots are offered to new starters cleared and (mostly) weed free. There are some limits on what they can grow such as no permanent crops as they are intended to give people a manageable introduction to working and growing their own patch of earth. There is a shared shed on these plots to encourage community amongst our new growers and after a successful year they are offered a half plot. Some still give up but many more are getting the bug and taking the half plot in their second year. Some choose to stay on the quarter plot if they are not confident enough to move up or feel that it is just right for them.
The Starter Plots have been a big success and we have reduced the yearly churn dramatically. Other societies are now also doing this and we hope it will spread and help keep allotments viable with an influx of new members.
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