Cardiff

Cardiff Women's Aid - awarded £5,000

This site is at the rear of the Cardiff Women's Aid information centre and refuge. The project has transformed a non descript piece of land into a communal garden and creative play space for the benefit of the community of women and children who seek refuge from domestic abuse.

The garden has areas to grow food, hold social events, and engage in creative play and sport. With distinct areas providing the women with space to sit and relax whilst their children play in their own space within view. With the help of BTCV Cymru 150 women got involved throughout the year planting the beds on designated working and activities days. Make a Difference Day teamed the women’s refuge with Fairwater Community Gardens, where they were able to join in healthy living, cooking and horticulture sessions.

The opportunity to work together and with other community groups and agencies fostered friendships, culminating in day trips and discreet projects being arranged, including cookery with herbs, composting, pottery and making bird and bat boxes.

As new families came into the refuge, existing members shared their newfound skills, creating an atmosphere that encouraged personal development and an interest in learning. The maintenance days have continued, providing the changing members of the refuge with a place to learn, socialise and relax. The garden will continue to provide a resource and focal point for activities and learning, in addition to providing a valuable, safe and private space to meet others with shared experiences.