2022 feedback set the bar for 2023
Everyone thoroughly enjoyed and valued the whole 2022 Stations in Bloom experience. Feedback provided additional enhancements for 2023 resulting in greater participation across the region. Successful community engagement in 2023 increased station take up by 45%. Working with more than 500 volunteers.
18 tours with 18 judging teams travelling 8000 sustainable green miles by train and public transport throughout ten counties, visiting 70 stations over an eight-week period, clocking up more than 2400 volunteer hours and that was just the judging teams.
Funding gained from SWR, GWR, and CRPs. Significant business sponsorship for whole awards ceremony for 130 guests. Sponsored coach transfers. Raised awareness and regional profile of station volunteering. Successfully increased awareness and application of sound environmental practices for planting, watering and recycling. Protecting the natural environment 78% of stations now have sustainability at the heart of their work.
SIB is a positive reaffirming experience for all involved. Sharing examples of good practice and successes to other groups on the tour, promoting this approach to groups struggling to find volunteers, and how to access these important groups. Many people on the tours said they really benefited from the experience and would be lost without it.