11 May 2026
Summary: Local residents enjoyed a visit to Kew Gardens through a trip organised by resident‑led group Our Local Social, facilitated by the joint venture through partnership working.
Residents from Clapham Park and the surrounding area enjoyed a memorable day out at Kew Gardens on Saturday 18 April, thanks to a trip organised by resident‑led group Our Local Social through the Kew Community Access Scheme. The visit was facilitated and funded through the joint venture with lunch vouchers provided by our community impact team.
The Kew Community Access scheme initiative closely aligns with a shared commitment to wellbeing, celebrating nature and green space, and supporting strong, connected communities.
Fifteen local residents took part in the day, exploring the gardens together and enjoyed the flora and fauna. The group made use of the land train to travel around the site, before stopping for lunch and ice creams. There were plenty of smiles, moments of rest in the sunshine, and a strong sense of residents looking out for one another throughout the day.
Rosalyn Springer, MTVH Social Value Partnerships Manager, Clapham Park, said:
“It was a pleasure to provide access to Kew Gardens for local people and to share in the positive energy generated on the day. It’s important to put residents first and be creative and flexible as facilitators, so they can do what they want to. We do not have to head up every activity; the residents can lead the way.”
Kristina, Co‑Chair of Our Local Social, said:
“We had a lovely day trip to Kew Gardens where 15 residents from diverse backgrounds attended. Everyone was welcome and we enjoyed riding the train around the gardens and seeing the beautiful landscape, the Temperate and Palm houses. The weather was perfect and it was a great opportunity for people to get together and enjoy nature.”
Our Local Social continues to bring neighbours and local people together through activities and shared meals at their regular Wednesday gatherings at Clapham Park Cube, supporting connection and community pride.
Below – Clapham Park residents visit Kew Gardens
