Community projects in Bristol and how to get involved

With over 330 societies, student halls events and a variety of student nights to choose from, freshers can often get caught up in the student bubble. It can be easy to forget that a Bristolian world exists outside of Clifton and Stokes Croft.

Volunteering at one of Bristol’s many community projects is a fantastic way of experiencing the wider city and can be incredibly rewarding. You get to meet new and interesting people whilst giving back to a community which you are now a part of. There are so many volunteering opportunities in Bristol, so you are bound to find a particular project that suits you.

And don’t worry about having to commit to a certain amount of hours, because volunteering is usually very flexible and will work around your university schedule. University life is a lot of fun, but being surrounded by students all the time can soon become stifling. Volunteering at a community project is a lovely way to escape into the vibrant and diverse city we call home.

Here are some great places to get involved with:

St Werburgh’s City Farm
Watercress Road, St Werburgh’s, Bristol, BS2 9YJ

Nestled in the heart of inner-city Bristol, the farm uses its community garden, conservation site and allotments to educate and inspire local people. They aim to increase knowledge of where food comes from, provide greater access to local food and give people skills and experience.

They hold weekly volunteer sessions which range from nature and craft workshops to working with animals and everyone is welcome. To get involved, send an email to getinvolved@swcityfarm.co.uk.

Community centres
Various locations

One of the easiest ways to become involved in a project is to visit and explore your local community centre. Many centres will have a cafe that you can volunteer in or you may be able to become involved in a variety of community groups. At the very least they will be able to point you in the right direction and help you choose a role which is right for you.

The closest community centre for those living in the Clifton residences is Bristol Subud Hall, while in the city centre there is Bristol Folk House and near Stoke Bishop there is the Greenway Centre. Other notable centres include the Malcolm X Community Centre and Kuumba, both in St Paul’s.

North Bristol Community Project
160 Gloucester Road, Bishopston, Bristol, BS7 8NT

Situated on one of Bristol’s most famous streets, the North Bristol Community Project aims to promote wellbeing and community learning in order to bring about personal and social change. They celebrate diversity, inclusivity and bringing people together in a creative space.

Volunteers can help run craft groups and workshops or even gain experience in graphic design and event management. They are always welcome to new volunteers and would really appreciate help from students. To get involved email nbcp84@gmail.com.

Incredible Edible
Various locations

Beginning in 2014, Incredible Edible is a perfect volunteering opportunity for anyone who enjoys gardening or food. Their vision is to make Bristol an edible city by creating community gardens where anyone can grow and harvest healthy food. They have over 30 sites across Bristol and welcome volunteers to help tend the community gardens.

On their website, you can find an events calendar of work parties which you can simply turn up to and help out, and this opportunity is perfect for students who are worried about committing to certain hours as you can pick and choose the events you’d like to attend.