Mencap launches Mulberry Project
£100,000 plan for family gardening time at Enborne Gate
A DISABILITY charity is launching a fundraising campaign in order to offer new opportunities for adults and children with learning difficulties across the district.
West Berkshire Mencap is raising money for The Mulberry Project, which will cost £100,000, to provide first-class educational and recreational facilities, as well as a children’s playground with a wheelchair friendly treehouse.
An estimated total of £70,000 is to be put towards essential works, £10,000 for a woodwork cabin, £4,000 for a tool store and two polytunnels at £2,000 each.
Phase one begins with relocating and modernising the Growing4All horticultural project – currently located in Cottismore Park near Headley – to a safer, accessible site next to the Mencap Centre at Enborne Gate, Newbury.
There are also plans to include a children’s planting and sensory area, pottery, upgraded workshops for woodwork, hanging baskets, garden furniture and Christmas decorations.
Families with no garden of their own will be welcome to visit and enjoy gardening time with their children.
Fundraising consultant Sue Thorn said: “We are robustly fundraising, but desperately need the help of local companies, organisations and individuals alike to make this vision a reality.
“We have lots of fundraising ideas and would be only too pleased to help you move your plans forward.
“You can raise funds with colleagues at work, even if you are all working from home.
“There are lots of ideas on our website, whether you’re getting friends and family to join in or going it alone, and we are always happy to chat.
“Or just click and donate today to make a difference.”
To donate, go to www.wbmencap.org/themulberry-project or visit The Mulberry Project on the West Berkshire Mencap Facebook page.
Alternatively, call (01635) 41464 or email info@wbmencap.org.
The charity would also be delighted to receive any vital items, such as polytunnels or wheelbarrows, as a gift.
Garden suppliers that would like to donate goods can contact West Berkshire Mencap.