Lambeth GP Food Co-op

The Lambeth GP Food Co-op is one of the first community-led health co-operatives working in and for the NHS.

They are a co-operative of patients, doctors, nurses and Lambeth residents who grow food together.  

Since 2013 they have built gardens in GP surgeries designed to support patients with long-term health conditions to learn how to grow food and, by doing so, improve their health and wellbeing. Their aim is to make a significant contribution to improving the lives of local people living with multiple long-term conditions and the sustainability of the health and social care system.

They build gardens in GP surgeries and NHS hospitals so everyone who wishes to learn how to grow food can do so in a safe, secure and supported environment.

Their GP garden communities provide a space and a reason for people to socialise, learn and grow food together. People who participate are improving their own health and wellbeing.

This results in people feeling less isolated and better in themselves and, as GPs are now reporting, they don't require so many appointments.