A project established in the heart of Stoke-on-Trent to utilise bamboo to bring together communities has been given a boost by the RJS Foundation, who have given Brilliant Bamboo a grant to purchase equipment to support their work.
Brilliant Bamboo was established in 2023, growing out of the work done by cultural organisations and community groups in the city and alongside national projects, with a community interest company now taking the initiative forward.
They have established a small brownfield base in Stoke town, where not only is the bamboo being grown, but team building work and community events are also held. The continuation of this through vital equipment is part of the RJS Foundation contribution.
The RJS Foundation’s chair, Abi Brown OBE, recently met with founder Gemma Thomas to visit their site and see what Brilliant Bamboo is all about.
“The Brilliant Bamboo CIC is such a fascinating group. Whoever knew that bamboo could be so versatile, and used in so many ways – it’s a sustainable alternative wood, removes carbon and other gases from the atmosphere, and is clearly flourishing in this little corner of Stoke-on-Trent!
Hearing about the past projects and plans for the future is really inspiring, and it’s great to see their ‘parklet’ utilising the former factory site for something positive in the local community,” said Abi.
“The simplicity of the idea, the engagement with local people plus opportunities for team building really made this project stand out for us at the RJS Foundation.
Gemma and colleagues have worked so hard to establish something really special and it’s our pleasure to support them with growth that ambition. We’d love to receive more applications from local groups and further information can be found on our website at http://www.rjs-foundation.com.”