Community Benefit Society, Suffolk
Food costs are rising and global supply chains are under strain. We help people use their available space, garden, balcony, or windowsill, to grow food for themselves and their neighbours, with hands-on support from community volunteers.
Our volunteers visit your space and help you plan what to grow and how to make the most of it. Whether you have a garden, a balcony, or a single windowsill, we’ll put together a plan that fits, no experience needed on your part.
If health, age, or mobility makes gardening difficult, our volunteers can tend your space for you. Everyone should be able to contribute to and benefit from local food growing, regardless of physical ability.
We use the society’s funds to build shared infrastructure across the community: water storage systems, composting setups, and raised beds. These assets belong to everyone and make growing more productive for years to come.
New to growing? These four are forgiving, fast, and rewarding. Click one to read the full guide.
From first contact to first harvest, we guide you every step of the way.
Tell us about your space and what you’d like to grow. We’ll reply within a few days to arrange a visit.
A trained volunteer comes to you. Together you’ll plan what to grow, where, and how to get started.
We keep you going with practical guides and ongoing support. Your first harvest is closer than you think.
Have your say
Common Ground Suffolk is owned and governed by its members. Every member gets an equal vote on how the society is run, who leads it, and where its resources go. Membership is open to anyone who shares our aims.
Find out about membership →Get involved
You don’t need to be an expert gardener. Enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to get your hands dirty matter more than experience, and we’ll support you every step of the way.
Our volunteers visit growing spaces, help local people plan what to plant, build raised beds and water storage systems, and support those who find gardening physically difficult. Roles suit all levels of availability, from a few hours a month to something more regular. Some roles involving regular contact with children or vulnerable adults require a DBS check, which we arrange.
Get in touch about volunteering →