Getting More Connected – CSA Network UK’s Your Farm Your Community Project

Date Published: 31st March 2026

Last year we were generously funded by The JJ Charitable Trust and The Serve All Trust for a two-year project exploring ways to increase access and inclusion in our CSAs. The pilot project is based in West Yorkshire and is working out of two CSAs: Kirkstall Valley Farm and Swillington Organic Farm. 

Getting out and about and talking with groups about both farms, and exploring ways they could get more involved has been the focus of our work so far which is based around exploring how CSAs can increase access to sustainably grown food, build circular economies and measure and increase the health benefits of farm based green activities. The work is already leading to new connections with local communities, including Deaf people and LGBTQ+ communities.

We hope for success with our recent National Lottery Fund application to co-produce additional nature activities with members, supporters, volunteers and local community groups at Kirkstall Valley Farm and Swillington Organic Farm over the summer, further engaging local communities around the two farms.

We have also been successful in applying for a Household Support Fund Grant which has enabled Kirkstall Valley Farm to supply three months of free community veg boxes which have been distributed through local community groups. This work has taught us more about tackling food injustice from a CSA perspective and the farm has gained some new volunteers through building good connections with these community groups.

Are you working to engage your local community with your CSA or connecting with your local health system? We are gathering evidence of CSA impact in these areas and would love to showcase what your CSA is doing. Please email us.

‘Thank you very very much for your hospitality, inviting us to the farm, a beautiful atmosphere and the lovely people…’ Leeds Women’s Group

‘It tasted so lovely and looked so colourful.’

‘The vegetable boxes have been appreciated, everyone said how much flavour the vegetables from the farm have.’ Community Groups