gardens
Sustainable development and food security has always been one of the main themes of RISC's work. In 2002 we took this further by creating an edible forest garden on the flat roof above the conference hall. Designed as an educational tool using permaculture principles, the garden has become an oasis in the centre of Reading, a demonstration of how a garden can support more sustainable lifestyles and provide a practical solution to the problems of 'peak oil' and global climate change. It has had international media coverage and was shortlisted for the Observer Ethical Garden Award, 2009. It has also inspired two related projects: Global School Gardens and Food4Families.

Food4Families Logo

Food4Families, funded by the Big Lottery, is a project that aims to create a network of food growing gardens across Reading where parents and children will learn how to grow their own food together. This will enable young people and their families to learn new growing skills, introduce fresh produce into their diets and learn about sustainable living, while schools will integrate the outdoor classroom into the curriculum through practical activities.

find out more about the food4families project

visit the risc roof garden

roof garden open days

The RISC Roof Garden is open to the public on select days throughout the year.

see the events page for details of any upcoming open days

private tours

Private 1 hour guided tours are also available by arrangement.

to arrange a tour please contact dave@risc.org.uk