NFU Mutual Volunteers Give Back to the Local Community
NFU Mutual’s Claims Loss team joined us for a purposeful volunteering day at The Garden of Arden where they came together in the great outdoors to make a meaningful difference to both the site and the wider community.
Their visit supported the preservation and enhancement of the garden while also helping a local drama group for individuals with special needs called In2Theatre, who are preparing their production of Wind in the Willows at the Bear Pit in Stratford-upon-Avon, with two members of our Green Therapy group set to perform.
The team created props and stage scenery using sustainable materials and transformed second‑hand chairs by painting them a lively amphibious green before decorating them with hand‑painted nature patterns to match the woodland theme of the play.
On the land itself they topped up raised beds with peat‑free compost, planted and seeded areas with wildflowers, potted up plants for future use, extended the orchard area by putting up new fencing and planted arching ivy towers to create a welcoming entrance to one of our community garden spaces. Their hard work has strengthened the garden for the months ahead and supported a creative project that means a great deal to our community.
Midway through the day, the volunteers paused their hard work for a well‑earned afternoon tea in our cabin, gathering around plates of sandwiches, freshly baked scones and other treats to chat, unwind and share stories before heading back out with renewed energy.
We are incredibly grateful to the whole NFU Mutual Claims Loss team for their enthusiasm, energy and support throughout the day and we would like to give a special thank you to Chad Faulkner for organising the visit and bringing such a wonderful team together.
Anyone who would like to see the finished production can catch Wind in the Willows by In To Theatre at the Bear Pit Theatre in Stratford‑upon‑Avon on 25th, 26th and 27th June - a joyful celebration of creativity and community. Book tickets here
