What was once an overgrown, unused patch of land next to the Alan Higgs Centre in Coventry is now something very different. The People’s Patch has quickly become a place where people come not just to garden, but to connect, contribute, and move in a way that works for them.

With support from Warwickshire Wildlife Trust, a hidden pond at the back of the site was cleared and restored. Within weeks, it had come to life – frogs returned, and a pair of ducks made it their home. It’s a small moment, but an important one, showing how spaces like this can breathe new life into not just wildlife, but people too.

The People’s Patch is the perfect reminder that getting active doesn’t have to start with a gym or even a pair of trainers. Sometimes, it starts with being outside and breathing in a bit of nature.

The People’s Patch community garden

Recently celebrating their first birthday, The People’s Patch initiative, run by Groundwork West Midlands, has grown into a thriving community space shaped by the people who use it.

Led by Community and Environment Project Officer Jyan – whose passion for people, place and community is clear from the moment you meet him – the Patch is built on a simple idea: to create a safe, welcoming space where anyone can come along, get involved and feel part of something valuable.

And people have done exactly that.

In less than a year, more than 750 individuals have taken part, contributing over 2,500 volunteer hours during more than 100 sessions. In March, they welcomed 42 community volunteers in a single day.

What’s more telling is that many of these volunteers keep coming back. By January, every volunteer at the garden had been before. Proof that once people experience The People’s Patch, they want to be part of it.

A place to give back and grow

The People’s Patch brings together people from all walks of life.

Retirees rediscovering a love of gardening. Students keen to learn new skills. People without access to their own outdoor space. Young and older people looking for direction, connection or simply something enjoyable and worthwhile to do.

Volunteering here isn’t about pressure or expectations. It’s about taking part, whether that’s planting, painting, digging, weeding or helping shape new areas like the sensory garden or vegetable beds. There’s always something to do, and always a way to contribute.

The ease of being in nature

At the heart of The People’s Patch is something simple – the quiet power of nature.

Being outside in the fresh air, working with your hands, noticing the seasons change – it all has a way of slowing things down and making you feel better.

One thing that stands out at The People’s Patch is that people don’t arrive thinking about exercise. They come to help. But along the way, they find that they’re moving without even realising.

Digging, lifting, planting, walking, building, it all adds up. It’s movement in its simplest form. No pressure, no expectations. Just being active as part of something meaningful.

For many, that makes it easier to get started, and to keep going. It’s a reminder that getting up and out doesn’t have to look a certain way. It can be social, purposeful and woven into everyday life.

A community that’s growing

The People’s Patch isn’t just about transforming a plot of land, it’s about building a community.

Friendships are formed, skills are shared, and people are finding a sense of purpose.

There are also plans to make the space even more accessible going forward, to welcome schools, and expand what’s possible. This is just the beginning. Places where people, nature and community can thrive together.

Whether it’s volunteering, spending time outdoors, or simply trying something new, small actions can lead to something bigger. More confidence, more connection, and a stronger sense of community.

Sometimes, the most powerful way to get active is by not overthinking it at all.

Find out more about the People’s Patch here.

And for more simple tips and ideas on getting active in nature, visit our webpage here.