New Survey Reveals Allotments’ Impact on Wellbeing and Calls for Action to Protect Them
As National Allotments Week approaches, the National Allotment Society has released findings from their latest national survey showcasing the transformative power of allotments. The survey, which received nearly 2,000 responses from plot holders across the UK, highlights the vital role of allotments not only as spaces for growing food, but also as powerful tools for improving wellbeing.
According to the survey, 63% of respondents rated the impact of their allotment on mental wellbeing a perfect 10, with 91.9% scoring it 8 or higher. Additionally, 88.1% rated the physical health benefits 8 or above, with many reporting improvements in strength, mobility, and energy. The survey also revealed that 89.2% of plot holders ate more fresh produce, often a wider variety than they would consume without their allotment. Furthermore, 80.3% of respondents reported that their allotment helped them build social connections, with many describing their site as a “community in itself.”
While the benefits of allotments are clear, the survey also highlights challenges and inequalities within the current system. 19.3% of plot holders waited over two years for a plot, with 48.5% waiting more than six months, indicating growing demand and uneven provision. The survey also found over 50 different pricing structures, ranging from under £10 to over £100, with little correlation to plot size or site facilities. Additionally, nearly half of all sites offer no shared community space, despite evidence that social interaction enhances wellbeing.
The National Allotment Society is urging policymakers, local authorities, and landowners to recognize the value of allotments for public health, food security, and community resilience. They are calling for actions to protect and expand allotments and make them accessible for future generations.
Mike Farrell, Chairman of the National Allotment Society, explains, “Allotments are more than just green patches in our towns and cities – they are lifelines for thousands of people. They help us stay active, eat better, connect with others, and care for the environment. In the face of rising demand, we must act now to preserve and invest in these vital spaces before they’re lost.”
The National Allotment Society’s full survey report is now available to mark the start of National Allotments Week and can be accessed at: NAW SURVEY REPORT- P.pdf – Google Drive. The society is also calling on policymakers, local authorities, and landowners to take action to protect and invest in allotments. This news story is distributed by Pressat, a leading PR agency based in the UK, on behalf of the National Allotment Society.
