NAS 2025: A Year of Growth, Wellbeing and Celebration
2025 has been a landmark year for the National Allotment Society (NAS), filled with meaningful achievements, community engagement, and strong advocacy for allotment holders across the UK.
Championing Allotments and Wellbeing
One of the highlights of 2025 was National Allotments Week, held from August 11 to 17, with the theme "Allotments and Wellbeing."
This annual celebration brought communities together to showcase how allotment life supports physical health, mental well-being, nutrition, and social connection. Survey results released during the week showed that the vast majority of plot holders experienced significant benefits — from improved physical health and increased consumption of fresh food to stronger social ties and better mental wellbeing.
Top of the Plots Competition
2025 saw the launch of the Top of the Plots competition in partnership with GARDENA. This nationwide programme celebrates creativity, biodiversity, and horticultural excellence in grow-your-own spaces, from traditional allotments to urban gardens. More than 100 entries highlighted the diversity and passion of the UK’s allotmenteers. Winners, including Steve Mills from Barnet ( Plot of the Year), were recognised for blending productivity, beauty, and environmental stewardship.
Supporting Members and Knowledge Sharing
This year, NAS launched the “How to Form and Run an Allotment Association” booklet , providing practical guidance to empower local associations and volunteers. The Society also delivered numerous training sessions covering site management, safety, and community engagement. These initiatives ensure that both new and experienced allotmenteers have the tools and confidence to grow, manage, and enjoy their plots effectively.
New Ambassador
NAS welcomed Adam Frost as our new Ambassadorin 2025. His expertise, enthusiasm, and commitment to gardening bring inspiration and visibility to the allotment movement. Adam’s role will help connect NAS with wider audiences, champion sustainable growing, and highlight the social and environmental benefits of allotments.
Compliance Committee
To strengthen governance and ensure best practice, NAS established a
new Compliance Committee this year. The committee focuses on ethical operations, member safety, and legal compliance, reinforcing NAS’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and professional standards across all activities.
Five-Year Strategy
A major milestone in 2025 was the approval of NAS’s Five-Year Strategy, setting out priorities for membership, site protection, learning and development, communication, and organisational growth. This forward-looking plan will guide the Society’s work to support allotment holders and ensure these vital spaces thrive for generations to come.
Advocacy and Sustainability
Throughout the year, NAS continued to advocate for the protection and recognition of allotments, highlighting their role in wellbeing, sustainability, and community connection. Engagement with local authorities, policymakers, and the public reinforced the importance of allotments in creating healthier, more connected communities.
Looking Ahead
It has truly been a remarkable year. From launching new resources and competitions to strengthening governance, welcoming a new Ambassador, delivering training, and agreeing the Five-Year Strategy, NAS has built a strong foundation for the future. As we move into 2026, the Society remains committed to supporting members, protecting allotments, and celebrating the countless benefits of growing your own.
Perennial vegetables aren’t just a novelty—they’re the backbone of sustainable gardening
With the right care, many will produce for decades, all while building soil, supporting wildlife, and feeding you with minimal effort.
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National Society of Allotment & Leisure Gardeners Ltd
Registered in 1930 under the Industrial & Provident Societies Acts no. 11144R
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Patron His Majesty King Charles III
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