It started with curiosity – Seren’s story

Gardening can feel daunting. With so many dos and don’ts, it’s hard to know where to start.

Seren was already curious about gardening and keen to learn more about plants, seeds and flowers. But, like many people, she wasn’t sure where to find the right support to begin.

It turned out the answer was right on her doorstep: GwyrddNi’s Food and Wellbeing project, supported by the Climate Action Fund (CAF) which supports communities across the UK to act on climate change and involve more people in environmental action.

Seren’s impact has rippled into the wider community, inspiring others to get involved. She has helped people feel more connected, capable and hopeful.

Getting to work

Seren began attending GwyrddNi’s gardening sessions. Open to all, they’re part of a wider network of community food-growing, cooking and creative projects across the area.

Gardening became much more than Seren expected. It was joyful, grounding and full of small wins. It was a welcoming space to dig into the soil, enjoy the freedom of the outdoors and learn something new alongside others.

Blossoming in confidence

As Seren settled into the project, her confidence and happiness grew. She learned how plants thrive, how to care for them and how small touches can warm shared spaces.

The sessions made her feel great, kept her active and helped her feel connected to people and place.

She loved the friendly atmosphere so much that when the opportunity came up to become a regular volunteer, her answer was easy: “Yes, sign me up!”

A ray of positivity

Seren has become a real force within the project. Her infectious enthusiasm brings people together and creates a positive atmosphere of shared pride and joy. This has a real impact on everyone involved.

“It makes me feel very proud and happy to be part of this and to make our village look nicer, which inspires people to come and join in.” – Seren, GwyrddNi volunteer, Gwynedd

Growing something that lasts

CAF funding has helped GwyrddNi grow beyond one-off sessions into a coordinated, lasting project. It’s also allowed the team to connect with other rural projects across Gwynedd. They now share skills, knowledge and resources. This includes community gardens and orchards to creative workshops and cooking sessions.

Seren regularly attends gardening and creative workshops and remains very much at the heart of the project.

She is proud of what the group has achieved together. They’ve kept spaces neat and welcoming. They’ve also watched gardens flourish over time. Seren’s story shows what’s possible when people work together and care for their place.

Get started

With CAF support, projects like GwyrddNi can respond to what communities want and need. This enables people not only to take part, but to step into leadership and ownership themselves.

Seren’s impact has rippled into the wider community, inspiring others to get involved. She's helped people feel more connected, capable and hopeful.

Could you be your hometown’s Seren?

We support environmental projects of all shapes and sizes. We offer grants from £300 up to £20,000 through our open Awards for All programme to grants over £500,000 through our Climate Action Fund.

Find out more about environment funding in your area and apply