That’s why we’re excited to introduce The Inclusive Roots Project.

The Inclusive Roots Project is a hands-on gardening initiative designed to support people living with disability to grow their own fresh vegetables while developing practical life skills, confidence, independence, and social connections.

More Than Just a Garden

Raised garden beds will be built alongside participants using a combination of reclaimed and recycled materials. By working together to construct, plant, maintain and harvest these gardens, participants gain valuable experience in planning, teamwork, responsibility, and problem-solving.

Growing food offers many benefits. It encourages people to spend time outdoors, develop routines, learn new skills, and experience the satisfaction of seeing the results of their efforts.

For many participants, harvesting vegetables they have grown themselves can be a powerful boost to confidence and self-esteem.

Sustainability at the Heart of the Project

The Inclusive Roots Project is built around sustainable gardening practices that are simple, practical, and accessible.

Garden beds will incorporate:

• Reclaimed and recycled building materials
• Composting systems using repurposed containers and PVC worm towers
• Water-wise gardening techniques
• Olla-pot irrigation systems

Olla pots are an ancient irrigation method that uses buried unglazed clay pots to slowly release water directly to plant roots. This helps reduce water consumption, minimise evaporation, and makes watering easier for participants who experience fatigue, mobility challenges, or difficulties maintaining regular routines.

Participants will also learn how food scraps can be transformed into nutrient-rich compost, helping them understand the complete journey from food waste to food production.

Supporting Sensory Exploration

Many people living with disability experience sensory challenges around food and eating.

The Inclusive Roots Project takes a gentle, hands-on approach by allowing participants to explore food throughout its entire lifecycle. From planting seeds and touching soil to harvesting vegetables and preparing meals, participants are encouraged to engage with food in a positive, supported environment.

Our goal is to transform potential sensory barriers into opportunities for sensory exploration, learning, and enjoyment.

Developed by People with Lived Experience

What makes this project special is that it has been developed by people who understand disability firsthand.

Many members of the Lion and Mouse Australia team, including our Board and support workers, have lived experience as people with disability, carers, or family members supporting loved ones with disability.

We understand the importance of creating opportunities that focus on ability, participation, and meaningful outcomes.

Growing Together

The Inclusive Roots Project is about much more than vegetables.

It’s about growing confidence.

It’s about growing skills.

It’s about growing independence.

Most importantly, it’s about creating opportunities for people living with disability to contribute, succeed, and take pride in something they have built themselves.

We look forward to sharing the journey as the first gardens take shape and participants begin harvesting the rewards of their hard work.

If you would like to support The Inclusive Roots Project, donate materials, volunteer your time, or learn more about the initiative, we’d love to hear from you.

Together, we’re growing food, skills, and independence. 🌱

Whether you’re a participant, family member, carer, or someone just wanting to lend a hand, Lion and Mouse is keen to assist you with opportunities to help people living with disability.

 1300 048 355
 www.lionandmouse.com.au

Lion and Mouse Australia Ltd is a registered Australian charity committed to empowering people with disability, supporting families and recognising the invaluable contribution of carers across Australia.