What do Mentors do?

Mentors give free advice and support to anyone involved in regenerating allotments. And because Mentors are part of ARI, they get to hear about good practices in allotments regeneration from around the UK they can share with you to use on your own site or project. If you have any query about regenerating allotments then your Mentor can help, over the phone, by email, or even by a site visit or presentation to your organisation. 

Who has used the Mentors services so far?

A broad variety of people and organisations have successfully use the Mentor Network: plotholders, allotment associations, local councils, council allotments officers, elected councillors, schools, community groups, statutory organisations such as the NHS or SureStart.  

Do I have to pay to use a Mentor?

No, it’s a FREE service for anyone. ARI funds the Mentor Network from it’s own core funding.

How do I find out who my Mentor is?

You can find contact details for all Mentors listed in this section - just look for your region if you are based in England, or your country if you are in Wales or Scotland. 

Can Mentors help us with funding?

All Mentors have experience of searching and applying for funding, and all Mentors have received training in fundraising. They can link you up with local funding experts in your area and they can put you in touch with other sites that have made successful grant applications. They can also give tips on how to cut out the need for money altogether. 

Do Mentors offer advice on how to set up an allotment association?

Yes. Most of our Mentors come from a background of committee positions in thriving allotments associations and federations. All Mentors have received training on setting up allotment associations. Not only can our Mentors show you how to set up the correct paperwork and provide you with sample documents to work from, they can also give you practical tips on how to keep enthusiasm going to ensure your association lasts and is one to be proud of.  

Can Mentors help with setting up new sites?

Yes. ARI Mentors can help with advice on funding, working with local residents, councils and landowners alike. Mentors can signpost you to information sources and link you up with organisations that can give you advice and support, as well as other new sites. 

We get vandalism on our site – can a Mentor help us?

Yes – Mentors have been very successful in helping sites develop ways to deal with vandalism and other illegal activities on allotment sites.

Please note: ARI Mentors are not able to offer legal advice, or get involved with disputes.