Nottinghamshire-based Community Interest Company (CIC), Pulp Friction, is set to make a statement on inclusivity through gardening at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in May 2024. The ‘Growing Skills Garden,’ sponsored by Project Giving Back and designed by eco-champion designers Will Dutch and Tin-Tin Azure-Marxen of Dutch Landscape Architects, aims to challenge perceptions and promote the capabilities of adults with learning disabilities and/or autism.
In an effort to address the stark reality that only 5% of adults with learning disabilities are employed nationally, Pulp Friction continues its mission to enhance work-readiness and independence through innovative programs. The ‘Growing Skills Garden,’ falling under the All About Plants category, will be a testament to the organization’s dedication to creating positive change.
Beth Danks, lead gardener at Pulp Friction, expressed excitement about the project, emphasizing the opportunity for members to actively participate in staffing the garden, running associated events, and contributing to its relocation to Stockhill Fire Station for community enjoyment.
Environmental sustainability is at the core of Pulp Friction’s work, evident in the garden’s design. Recycled materials and eco-friendly techniques will be employed, with members actively cultivating a significant portion of the plants used, including edible varieties like Runner Beans, Herbs, Marigolds, and succulents. Post-show, these plants will be sold or returned to Nottingham, ensuring a sustainable lifecycle.
Highlighting collaboration, Pulp Friction members are crafting various garden elements with support from local craftspeople. These handmade components, such as gabions, aprons, tiles, bug hotels, and birdhouses, showcase the power of teamwork and community engagement.
Jill Carter MBE, CEO of Pulp Friction, shared the inspiration behind the venture, stating, “When my daughter, Jessie, and I began Pulp Friction in 2009, we had a single smoothie bike… It’s from here that we saw the potential of what Pulp Friction could be, and we’ve continued to grow and develop ever since.” The garden design pays homage to Pulp Friction’s roots, incorporating motifs inspired by spin-art bikes and recycled fire hoses from their partnership with Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service.
Drawing inspiration from forest gardens and the iconic Sherwood Forest, the ‘Growing Skills Garden’ embodies a diverse approach to planting, creating a dynamic and productive yet calming space. Jill expressed gratitude to Project Giving Back for enabling Pulp Friction to showcase their ‘Growing Skills Garden’ at Chelsea, emphasizing the opportunity to break barriers and change perceptions on a wider scale.
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