Essex Freemasons 'DIG IT' in Saffron Walden

Community engagement and charity in action

Essex Freemasons have continued their commitment to meaningful community support by donating £500 to DIG IT, a local therapeutic gardening charity, following an inspiring presentation at the June meeting of Burntwood Lodge (the Essex Charity Stewards Lodge) held at Saffron Walden Masonic Hall.

Representatives from DIG IT, Lee Huggins (Project Manager), Lisa Harper (Site Manager), and Marion Turner (Service Lead), delivered a compelling presentation outlining the vital role the organisation plays in supporting individuals with physical, mental, and learning disabilities through inclusive horticultural and woodwork activities.

For over 15 years, DIG IT has offered people in the Saffron Walden area a safe, calm and social outdoor space where volunteers and service users alike can grow produce, develop new skills, and improve their mental wellbeing. From composting and greenhouse propagation to accessible tool use and meal planning with home-grown ingredients, the charity continues to promote sustainability, reduce isolation, and build community cohesion.

“The planned extension and development of our Japanese Garden will allow even more people to re-engage and improve their mental health,” said Lee Huggins. “Support from Essex Freemasons will help us fast-track our development projects and extend our services further.”

The DIG IT site has been specifically designed with accessibility in mind, featuring wheelchair-friendly pathways, raised beds, adaptive tools and a welcoming atmosphere. Activities are user-led, allowing everyone to contribute meaningfully to the development and upkeep of the site.

Chris Hicks, Provincial Charity Steward for Essex Freemasons, praised the charity’s approach:

“This is exactly the type of initiative we aim to support through our community engagement programme. Freemasonry must be relevant to the needs of today and tomorrow, and DIG IT is making a tangible difference in people’s lives.”

This donation reflects Essex Freemasons’ growing commitment to local partnerships that promote wellbeing, inclusion and sustainable community development, a core element of the United Grand Lodge of England’s “Third Pillar” strategy, Forging a Thriving Future.

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