Growers Retreat for BPOC Growers and Landworkers in the Countryside
At Ragman’s Lane Farm, Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire
For Black people and people of colour
- Fri 22nd – Sun 24th April
- Fri 19th – Sun 21st Aug
- Fri 30th Sept – Sun 2nd Oct
What is it?
As our work and conversations around land and climate justice necessarily expand and intersect with issues of racial justice, there is an urgent need for gentle, nourishing spaces for Black people and people of colour (BPOC) to replenish, meet with others and build community.
Taking place in the Forest of Dean, these retreats will be an opportunity for BPOC growers and land workers to spend a peaceful weekend together, connecting to the natural world in the Gloucestershire countryside. Over the weekend, there will be opportunities to go for walks, contribute to the adjacent growing site, learn from one another and converse around the fire.
There will be three retreats taking place this year, and each place is fully funded (excluding travel) and open to all growers and land workers who identify as BPOC.
The retreats will be facilitated by Claire Ratinon, an organic food grower and writer.
Where is it?
The Retreat will take place at Ragman’s Lane Farm in the Forest of Dean. The beautiful site is a working farm, and participants will be hosted in the bunkhouse. The accommodation offered will be in shared dormitories with each room containing between 2-6 beds. There is also space to camp for anyone who would rather bring their own tent. Participants can also choose to sleep off site at their own expense if they would prefer. Sadly, as the farm has uneven ground and sleep slopes, it is not as accessible for those with disabilities as we would like.
Food
All food will be provided over the weekend. The menu will be vegan, although other dietary requirements will also be taken into consideration.
Travel
The nearest train station to Ragman’s Lane Farm is Gloucester station, which is half an hour drive away. We plan to provide some pick-ups from the station and hope participants will also consider sharing lifts where possible.
There is no charge for the retreats, food and accommodation, but unfortunately we do not have the funds to also cover travel costs. Despite this, we are keen to make sure that the retreats are as accessible as possible so if you need a travel bursary to be able to attend, please get in touch and we will see what support we can provide.
How do I register my interest?
To register your interest in one of the weekends, please fill out the form here.