Community gardening as a conduit for bolstering wellbeing, employment, education and volunteering in vulnerable communities: a feasibility study

BACKGROUND: Growing evidence promotes community gardening as an effective community-based initiative to enhance the wellbeing of community members, including those considered vulnerable. Whilst this expanding evidence-base is encouraging, little is known about the feasibility of community gardening thus limiting its scalability. METHODS: The current mixed-method study assesses the feasibility, acceptability and implementation of the Community Greening program delivered in vulnerable communities in New South Wales, Australia. Data was gathered from 33 survey participants, 39 interview participants, and case notes from seven sites. RESULTS: Findings demonstrate that participants have particular needs in wellbeing and employment outcomes, especially for those with reported disability. Attendance is variable with identified enablers and barriers. Satisfaction with the program is evident with suggestions for improvements. Finally, fidelity of implementation is strong, with an opportunity to increase community-led workshops, and enhance future implementation informed by the reported enablers and barriers. CONCLUSIONS: With the positive impact of community gardening now established, findings guide how we effectively resource and sustainably implement programs with the fidelity required to realise their potential. TRIAL REGISTRATION: N/A.