An Essex charity has secured £10,000 in funding to create a new community garden in South Ockendon, helping local residents develop new skills, improve wellbeing and build stronger community connections.

Trust Links, a charity that uses nature-based activities to support mental health and reduce social isolation, has received the grant through National Highways’ Lower Thames Crossing Community Fund.

The funding will be used to establish a new community garden on the Flowers Estate in South Ockendon. The project will give residents the opportunity to learn practical gardening skills, grow their own fruit and vegetables, and take part in cooking sessions using produce harvested from the site.

Organisers hope the garden will become a welcoming community space where people can meet others, spend time outdoors and take part in activities that support both physical and mental wellbeing.

The award is one of 31 grants distributed across Havering, Thurrock and Brentwood through the latest round of the Lower Thames Crossing Community Fund. The programme supports local projects that aim to improve quality of life, strengthen communities and create lasting benefits for residents living near the route of the proposed Lower Thames Crossing.

National Highways has committed almost £2 million to community initiatives during the construction phase of the Lower Thames Crossing project, with funding being distributed over several years to local charities, voluntary organisations and community groups.

Among the other organisations receiving support are projects focused on youth activities, community wellbeing, skills development and volunteering opportunities. Successful applications were assessed by a panel made up of representatives from local authorities, community foundations and National Highways.

Trust Links has a long history of delivering therapeutic gardening projects across Essex, helping people improve their wellbeing through contact with nature, social interaction and practical outdoor activities.

The new South Ockendon garden is expected to provide a valuable community resource for local residents while creating opportunities for learning, healthy living and community involvement for years to come.