Lancaster University's Wind Turbine Community Benefit Fund is a beacon of hope for local projects striving to make a meaningful impact. Established 11 years ago with the foundation of the University wind turbine, the fund supports initiatives that foster community growth and sustainability. Each year, the fund allocates up to £20,000 to Lancaster District-based not-for-profit organisations, charities, trusts, community groups or voluntary organisations and has created numerous success stories across the area.

We are showcasing some of the successful projects that the fund has supported and the Olive Branch Garden project is one example of this. The Olive Branch is a Lancaster-based charity providing vital services, including a foodbank, support for asylum seekers and families, and guidance toward mental health, domestic abuse, and debt resources. In spring 2025, they used the funding for the creation of a garden area for guests, using sustainable seating and planters. In an otherwise unplanted area of the wider White Cross area of Lancaster, the garden not only provides a relaxing and welcoming space for the local community, but it also provides a small area of habitat for insects and pollinators.

Linda Currin, from The Olive Branch, said, “The garden area provides an attractive and welcoming entry and waiting area for The Olive Branch. The garden helps us to provide a pleasant and comfortable green environment to those facing the stigma and emotional distress sometimes associated with seeking support from a food bank.”

The Olive Branch cleverly maximised their funds by re-using existing furniture where possible and using connections with local contractors and builders. Lancaster University remains committed to empowering more projects like this, encouraging other organisations to apply for the fund and make a lasting difference.

Find out more about the projects on our Community Benefit Fund webpage.