MindFood in Perivale celebrates a King's Award for helping people grow wellbeing

At Horsenden Farm in Perivale, rows of young vegetable plants are doing more than growing food. They are part of the work of MindFood, an Ealing based mental health charity that has been recognised with the King's Award for Voluntary Service, the highest honour for local volunteer groups.

MindFood was founded in 2012 and helps people across the borough improve their mental health through food growing and practical wellbeing techniques. It supports people living with depression, anxiety and stress, teaching them to grow a range of fruit and vegetables while building mindfulness and self care into each session.

The charity runs sessions year round, six days a week, from two sites: Horsenden Farm in Perivale and Cleveley Crescent Allotments near Hanger Lane. Its free six session Growing Wellbeing courses cover the basics of wellbeing and self care, while Naturally Creative offers art sessions and Sustainable Wellbeing teaches practical garden DIY skills.

The King's Award, often described as the MBE for voluntary groups, was announced in November 2024. In April 2025 MindFood celebrated with a community garden party at Horsenden Farm, where the award was presented on behalf of the King by Deputy Lieutenant Richard Kornicki CBE DL. More than 150 people attended, including the Mayor of Ealing, local councillors and Ealing Southall MP Deirdre Costigan.

Guests were able to see more than 1,000 young vegetable plants grown by the charity. These are given away through its Grow Some Share Some initiative, which donates seedlings and plants to local primary and SEND schools and community groups.

Programme director Lucy Clark said the team was "absolutely delighted" to receive the award, and paid tribute to the people the charity works with: "they show us that with the right support, they can live happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives." She said the team and volunteers inspire the charity every day to do more for people struggling with their mental health.

There are plenty of ways to get involved, from joining a course to volunteering creative, practical or communications skills.

To register for a course, volunteer or donate, visit mindfood.org.uk or email info@mindfood.org.uk.