Greater Manchester Land Army

Kindling in partnership with Moss Brook Growers, Glebelands City Growers, Dig Food, Unicorn Grocery, Abundance Manchester, MERCi, Hulme Community Garden Centre & Debdale Eco-Centre have secured some initial funding to establish a Land Army of volunteers, placements and trainees to help increase the production of sustainable food for Greater Manchester.

The project aims (by March 2012), to establish a financially resilient 'land army', which:

* Has the capacity to involve a larger 'unskilled' pool of individuals, resulting in potential increases in yields and income for growers.
* Nurtures a small number of committed and trained individuals that growers are able to call upon in times of need.
* Offers progression for potential new growers to meet increased demand.

The idea was inspired by the women's land armies of the First & Second World Wars, and offers a solution to a number of challenges faced by local organic growers including:Labour issues and costs for local growers at busy periods e.g. harvest time.

* Lack of skilled labour for illness and holiday cover.
* More growers are needed to meet future demand.
* Lack of a way into growing commercially for individuals.
* Lack of opportunity for practical involvement in sustainable food systems.

The funder: Making Local Food Work are providing support through their Local Food System programme, with the aim of developing resilient, co-operative activities to improve the longevity and reach of sustainable food in local areas.