In this post Martha Cattell (Living Lab Research Assistant) caught up with Tracy from The Groves Association who received funding alongside YSJ student Rae for a project entitled ‘Greening the Groves’
The Friendly Living Fund is a micro-grant fund at York St John University, set up in a partnership between the Living Lab and YSJ Student Union, for student projects tackling the cost of living and contributing to climate resilience. This project was part of our second round of the Friendly Living Fund.
Tell us about the Groves Association, how students can get involved and what work do you do?
The Association aims to improve the quality of life of residents living in the Groves area of York, bringing together residents, local authorities, voluntary organisations and local businesses in a common effort to reduce social isolation, improve community cohesion and maintain and enhance an inclusive, supportive, healthy and sustainable neighbourhood. We also work with community partners to maximise the provision of community facilities for the benefit of residents.
We encourage people to get involved in areas they have an interest and are willing to spend a little spare time putting back into their community area.
Why did you apply for the Friendly Living Fund?
One of St Johns students who has an interest in gardening approached me. She was doing some volunteering as part of a gardening group
Tell us a bit more about your project you applied for and why you wanted to make it happen?
The greening project is gradually working around areas of The Groves planting areas to not only visually enhance the area but to also work towards providing green corridors for wildlife (bees, butterflies, birds, hedgehogs)
What impact has your project had so far, and how do you hope it will develop in the future?
The main body of the greening is working on improving neglected council flat communal areas and encouraging residents to get involved. As we build on this we are also working on encouraging people in private properties to work on their forecourts and consider hanging baskets at the front of their houses.
How did it address cost of living and climate resilience?
The greening project supports cost of living and climate resilience by improving shared spaces in affordable ways while strengthening community networks. Residents benefit from attractive, low-cost environmental improvements and opportunities to grow plants, share resources, and build supportive relationships—helping ease financial pressures. At the same time, increased planting boosts biodiversity, creates wildlife corridors, and improves air quality. Green spaces can also help absorb rainwater and reduce heat in urban areas. By involving residents directly, the project encourages sustainable habits and long-term environmental awareness, helping the community become more resilient, connected, and better prepared for future economic and climate challenges.
Why do you think the Friendly Living Fund is important?
It provides an ideal opportunity for students to engage with local residents that in turn helps with local relationships
Why do you think it is important for community organisations and university students to work together?
Community organisations and university students working together is important because it creates mutual benefits for everyone: students gain real-world experience, develop skills like teamwork and problem-solving, and build a stronger sense of purpose, while communities benefit from extra support, new ideas, and volunteer capacity to help tackle local challenges; together, they create a valuable exchange of knowledge, build trust, and strengthen connections, leading to a more resilient, engaged, and supported community.
To find out more about The Groves Associations and how to get involved head to this link: https://grovesassociation.org/
