A gardener in Hull has been acknowledged for his work at Astra Youth Centre in Bransholme, where young people are connecting with nature, developing new skills, and improving their wellbeing through the centre’s innovative gardening project.
Jon Pearson was presented with the prestigious Earthmovers Award at Friends of the Earth’s Yorkshire Summer Action Gathering. The award recognises the dedication of local environmental groups and their members, including the team at Astra Youth Centre.
Jon and Astra Youth Centre’s youth workers guide young people in caring for the centre’s garden at weekly social sessions, enhancing the local environment and encouraging sustainable practices. The sessions, held on Thursday evenings from 4pm–5.30 pm and 6:30–8pm, provide a safe and supportive space for young people to unwind after school, build confidence, and form positive friendships.
Activities have included planting flowers and vegetables, constructing a super hedgehog house, creating a wild hedge row to encourage wildlife, and cooking meals together around the fire pit. These sessions have also provided a creative outlet, with one young person even writing a story that was performed around the fire, demonstrating increased confidence and social skills.
Councillor Linda Tock, portfolio holder for children’s services, said:
“We are delighted to see the positive impact this project has had on young people in Bransholme. Connecting with nature, working as a team, and taking part in creative activities supports mental health, builds confidence, and fosters a strong sense of community. We thank Jon Pearson and all the youth workers at Astra for their dedication and for making this project such a success.”
The project is run in partnership with Rewilding Youth, whose network brought Jon to Astra Youth Centre. Building on its success, there are plans to expand gardening activities into additional social sessions during the week.
For more information about Hull’s Youth Centres and Projects, click here.
