A loving grandmother, mother and a friendly familiar face in our local community of Deptford has recently passed away, Flora Russell, leaving a treasured allotment she nurtured for over a decade - nearly two decades! Her dying wish was for her autistic grandson and her son to take over and maintain this allotment that holds such a special place in her heart and our neighborhood. 

Her grandson, who is not currently in formal education due to his unique needs, is mourning greatly the loss of his grandmother, who was a parental figure, and best friend to him. The allotment site is just a two minute walk from his home; he used to help his Nanny in the allotment, dig things up for her, water and plant and wishes to continue growing fruits and vegetables to share among the community and keep her memory alive with his uncle for their family. He is 9 years old next month and has been at the allotment since the summer he was born in 2016. 

The allotment's upkeep is crucial and more important than ever. Agriculture offers therapeutic benefits, especially to people with autism - it can improve motor skills, develop patience, and increase self-esteem. (Autism Speaks, 2019) Additionally, allotments are known to contribute to community well-being and foster a sense of belonging (King's Fund, 2016). In our case, the fruits and vegetables grown in this allotment have been shared with our community for years, enhancing our sense of unity and connection, whether it be the post office, pharmacy, GP surgery, friends, family, neighbours or Lewisham staff. 

If you look at Flora’s obituary (link attached) you are able to see comments from people in the local community about how she shared her fruit and veg and it has a special mention as it was a huge part of her. 

Maintaining this allotment will not only honor a beloved grandmother's legacy but will also provide her grandson with continuity, purpose, and a sense of belonging during this difficult time as well as his uncle - one of Flora’s sons who will maintain the upkeep as he was always over there with his Mum. It will benefit the individuals, the community, the family and keep alive a vibrant culture of sharing and unity that is the essence of our neighborhood and keeping her dying wish.

https://www.funeralguide.co.uk/obituaries/131612

Please sign the petition to support this young man's strive to uphold his grandmother's legacy by maintaining her cherished allotment with his uncle.