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At the University of Sussex Business School, community spirit is taking root—literally. This summer, staff and students came together for a day of volunteering at the University’s Food Forest Garden, nestled behind the Northfield residences. The initiative is part of Sussex’s staff volunteering programme, which allows colleagues to support causes they care about during working hours.

Claire Tymoshyshyn, who works in the Business School and joined the volunteer day, described the experience as “a chance to step away from the desk and reconnect with people, with nature, and with the values that underpin our work at Sussex.”

Claire, a self-described novice gardener, said she had long been curious about the garden and saw the volunteering opportunity as the perfect way to get involved. “It was a beautiful day spent weeding, mulching, and learning more about the forest garden approach from Paul Wiggins, the practical tutor for the Food Forest Garden elective. What struck me was how much care and intention go into this space—not just in the way it’s planted, but in how it brings people together.”

The Food Forest Garden is now in its fourth year and is designed as a living classroom for students studying sustainable food systems. As it matures, it will require less intervention, thanks to its layered planting style and ecological design. “We’re still in the establishment phase,” said Paul Wiggins during a tour of the site, “but the long-term vision is a self-sustaining ecosystem that nourishes people, pollinators, and the planet.”

The volunteering day attracted staff from across the University, alongside students enrolled in the elective. Tasks included removing invasive grasses, applying mulch to protect young plants, and having conversations in the dappled shade. For Claire, these small acts added up to something meaningful. “It was simple work, but with a big impact. And it reminded me how important it is to carve out time for things that feed us in other ways—creatively, socially, and emotionally.”

Two more volunteer days are planned for the Food Forest Garden later this summer, with dates now confirmed. Staff interested in using their volunteering leave—either in the garden or supporting other causes—can find out more on the Staff Hub.

“It’s easy to get caught up in the pace of daily work,” said Claire. “But this was a gentle reminder that contributing to our wider community can be energising, too. I’d absolutely recommend it.”

Read more about how colleagues are using their volunteering days: Time well spent: celebrating staff who give back.

Dates for upcoming volunteer days:
Paul, the practical tutor for the garden, will be on site on Thursday 31st July and Thursday 14th August, from 11.00am to 3.00pm, leading sessions caring for the garden. No past gardening experience is needed, and you’re welcome to drop in at any time—and for as little or as long as you like.

Anyone interested in attending can contact Perpetua Kirby for further information. 

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