Cross Keys Homes uses green spaces to improve well-being
7 May 2025
They have transformed previously unloved spaces from the haunt of the anti-social to the very epitome of sociability and connection.
Cross Keys Homes recognises the power of green spaces to improve both mental and physical well-being for people. Through its two community gardens it encourages people to come together, grow things, make connections and engage in gentle exercise.
Its Well-being Garden transformed an overgrown space in one of its largest estates from a magnet for flytippers into an oasis of calm. Managed by volunteers and with thanks to the community investment of local companies and charities it now boasts a wildlife pond, productive raised beds, poly tunnel and even a composting toilet!
Local business Caterpillar has spent a number of days working in the garden as part of their CSR commitment and have helped to build flower beds and structures on the site. Trees, expertise and time have been donated by the Peterborough Environment City Trust and local school children got stuck in with the job of building the pond, under the watchful eye of conservation charity, Froglife.
The garden now hosts a range of community events, even being honoured by a visit from Santa himself. Crafts and mental health activities help to bring together the local community, while neighbours can use the space to meet, chat and potter among the flowerbeds.
The WestRaven Cross Keys Homes Community Garden started life in in 2016, along with the Community Café, with the help of funding from the National Lottery Big Local and CKH. It has grown and flourished in the intervening years and now stands as an independent charity (CIO) run by the local community and CKH.
Like the Wellbeing Garden, it is powered by a band of truly inspirational volunteers and boasts a productive kitchen garden (with produce going into the community and the Café), wildlife areas and an impressive educational programme. In close partnership with the neighbouring primary school, it allows young people to access nature and learn about horticulture and conservation. It too works in partnership with local conservation charities to provide a home for nature, with ponds, trees and nectar rich flowers in abundance. It even boasts a classroom space, so the learning can carry on regardless of the weather! The garden has also hosted community parties, open air cinemas and concerts.
Both gardens enable people to come together and share in nature. They have transformed previously unloved spaces from the haunt of the anti-social to the very epitome of sociability and connection across ages, backgrounds and abilities. They are judgement free spaces that facilitate fun and friendship, with an important underlying message of care for our natural world.