Community Food Growing

Thurrock Council is seeking feedback from organisations with experience in school and community food growing, horticultural education, and community capacity-building to inform the potential future development of this programme. During 2025/26, the Council has successfully delivered a school and community food growing and capacity-building programme across 5 schools and a community setting. The program has supported schools, residents and community groups to develop food growing skills, increase access to green spaces, strengthen community connections, and contribute to wider health and wellbeing outcomes. Building on the learning and successes achieved to date, the Council is exploring opportunities to expand the programme into additional areas, particularly where there is greatest need and potential to reduce health inequalities. This market engagement exercise will help us understand the capacity, capability and interest of potential suppliers, identify any barriers to participation, and gather feedback to shape the future service model and procurement approach. Please note that the value, contract start and end dates are to be confirmed.