Volunteer gardening
Join in at a work party
If you love gardening or want to give it a try, our work parties are the perfect opportunity to get involved! Open to everyone, these gatherings are not only a great way to contribute but also to learn and connect with fellow garden enthusiasts.
A work party is a gardening session organised by Oakham in Bloom to plant, maintain, and tidy the Oakham in Bloom beds. A group of volunteers get together all throughout the year, generally once a week to work on a specific bed. We typically meet on Sunday mornings, but occasionally we host events on different days and times to accommodate varying schedules.
Find out more below with our work party FAQs
What do I need to bring?
Typically, volunteers bring along small hand tools like secateurs, trowels, and forks, or any other suitable hand tools. If you don't have these, they are usually available to borrow. If any specific tools are required, it will be mentioned in the work party email. Additionally, it's recommended to bring gardening gloves, a bottle of water, and any desired snacks.
What is provided?
An Oakham in Bloom Hi Vis Waistcoat with the Oakham in Bloom logo.
Where do I park?
The availability of free parking depends on the location of the work party. If it's in the town center, car parks are usually free on Sundays. Otherwise, you can park in any suitable nearby location. If you're unsure where to park, contact the work party organiser for assistance. Our locations also accessible by bike or on foot
How often do they take place?
Generally the work parties take place once a week on a Sunday morning at 9am. However, work parties can take place any day of the week, more generally in the morning.
We occasionally hold smaller, more casual work parties in the weekday evenings. These generally involve doing some tidying jobs around the town.
Do I have to come to every work party?
Feel free to come whenever you have time and feel like it. There is no commitment required when you register.
Do I need gardening experience?
We welcome gardeners of all levels of experience and our experienced members are happy to guide the new ones. Don't be discouraged if you haven't gardened before, as there are various tasks available for all skill levels during work parties. If you're an experienced gardener or horticulturist and would like to in the planting and location discussions, please our Chair at chairatoib@gmail.com.
What tasks take place at a work party?
Typically, when we distribute information about the upcoming work party, we specify the type of tasks that will be carried out, such as general upkeep, planting, and removing weeds. On some occasions, we organise larger work parties to undertake significant renovations of our garden beds.
Are there toilets?
Public toilets are available on Church Street.
Where do the work parties take place?
Visit Our Work to learn more about the work done by Oakham in Bloom and the beds we maintain.
Who do I get in touch with if I have further questions?
For general inquiries about work parties, please contact us through our Contact Us page, or email our Chair at chairatoib@gmail.com. If you have a question about a particular work party, you can respond to the email you received regarding the upcoming event.
How do I sign up and hear about upcoming work parties?
We'd love to have you onboard! If you'd like to get involved, you can get in touch via our Contact Us page, or email our Chair at chairatoib@gmail.com.
How you can get involved
Every contribution, whether small or large, makes a difference to Oakham in Bloom. We deeply appreciate the efforts of our volunteers. Whether you have just a little time or more to spare, there are many ways to get involved. Discover how you can help and make a lasting impact on our community.