A HARLOW charity that provides outdoor therapy for children and adults with additional needs is celebrating the impact of a community grant it received from London Stansted two years ago.

Plant Pots and Wellies, based at an allotment in Harlow, was awarded £4,992 in 2023 by the Stansted Airport Community Fund (SACF).

The money has now helped the charity install solar panels on its tea shed and buy a defibrillator to support visitors with medical conditions.

The improvements mean the group will be able to continue activities into the evenings, charge tools using green energy, and offer greater peace of mind to participants and staff.

Plant Pots and Wellies runs gardening and craft therapy sessions for children and adults with additional needs.

Director Rowen Saunders said the funding had made a real difference.

“The solar panels have transformed what we can do. We now have lighting and power for our tools that’s reliable and environmentally friendly. The defibrillator also gives reassurance to our families and volunteers, particularly as we work with people who have a range of health needs.”

The project was funded through the SACF, which supports charities and community initiatives within a 10-mile radius of the airport. Grants are available for projects focused on community life, conservation, and the environment.

Daniel Turpin, Community Engagement Manager at London Stansted, said:

“It’s fantastic to see how this grant has had a lasting, positive impact for Plant Pots and Wellies and the people they support. They’re doing incredible work in the community, and the Community Fund is delighted to have played a small part in helping them grow.”

The SACF offers up to £5,000 for local projects and also awards one flagship grant of up to £50,000 each year. The next round of grant applications opened earlier this month. 

Since it was relaunched in 2023, the Fund has pledged to donate £1.5 million over the next decade, continuing to support community initiatives across the region.

The SACF meets quarterly and is managed by a committee of independent members, local authority representatives and airport staff.

For more information or to apply, visit: https://www.stanstedairport.com/community/community-support/community-funds/