LOVE Parks Week running until 3 August 2025 is a national celebration highlighting the vital role parks and green spaces play in boosting the health and wellbeing of residents and communities.
Recent government research shows these benefits increase when parks are managed by local community groups working alongside local authorities – like King Edward Park in Sneinton, Nottingham.
The park is looked after by Friends of King Edward Park (FOKEP) – a volunteer group made up of local residents. FOKEP work closely with Nottingham charity, The Renewal Trust, who are based at Cherry Lodge in King Edward Park. Cherry Lodge is a hub for local communities and The Renewal Trust runs a range of activities and events there – from free breakfast clubs for families during the school holidays, to Feel Good festivals bringing the whole community together.
Cherry Wells, The Renewal Trust’s CEO explained:
“By working together, we’re able to provide a much broader range of events, activities and services to local people – combining all the benefits of a thriving greenspace in the heart of the city, and a hub for the community all in one place. For example, the older people we support through our Feel Good Gold sessions are able to enjoy a walk in King Edward Park with the support of our trained volunteers.”
Pete Wright, local resident and co-founder of FOKEP, added:
“Our partnership with The Renewal Trust helps us benefit from sources of funding and opportunities we may not otherwise be able to access. It also brings more people into the park and makes it more inclusive – a place for everyone to enjoy. For instance, The Renewal Trust supports local refugees and asylum seekers at Cherry Lodge, who then enjoy spending time in the park and visiting the children’s playground with their families.”
FOKEP and The Renewal Trust has also teamed up with British Cycling and British Triathlon to launch a bike club for children aged 5-11, and a walk-bike-run hub which will offer a range of activities for people of all ages.
Sarah Williams, East Midlands Regional Manager, British Triathlon concluded:
“By partnering closely with organisations and local volunteers, we build genuine connections with local communities, break down barriers to access, and invite everyone – regardless of age, background or experience – to come together to walk, bike and run. That kind of collaborative spirit is what true inclusion looks like. King Edward Park is an amazing green space, and working with FOKEP, The Renewal Trust, and British Cycling, we’re delivering vibrant outdoor programmes that welcome people into the park.”
Find out more about The Renewal Trust: https://renewaltrust.co.uk/.
