SOUTHAMPTON gardeners can next month (May 2026) bag some greenfingered bargains at a Spring Plant Sale in aid of a charity working to boost social connectedness in the city.
Communicare is holding the event at CommuniBakes in Shirley to raise essential funds for its work helping vulnerable and isolated people of all ages in Southampton.
The charity’s Manager, Annie Clewlow says: “We’re delighted to be hosting our fifth annual Spring Plant Sale at our commercial venture, CommuniBakes, at 21 St James Road, Shirley, from 10am to 12pm on Saturday, May 16.
“There will be a wide variety of plants available to buy on the day, with all proceeds helping to fund our work. We’re also still looking for gardeners who would be happy to donate plants for us to sell. Donations can be dropped off at CommuniBakes from 8.30am on the morning of the event.
“We’re really looking forward to seeing what people kindly bring along and to meeting everyone who comes to browse, buy and support us.
“With the current economic climate, fundraising events like this are more important than ever. Every penny raised goes directly towards making a real difference to people’s lives.
“Visitors can also enjoy a sweet or savoury treat from the bakery, along with tea or coffee, and relax at our pavement tables, subject to availability.
“CommuniBakes exists to support our work, with all profits donated back to the charity, so whether you enjoy a slice of cake or take home a loaf, you’ll be supporting people in the local community. Bread can also be pre-ordered online in advance.”
Communicare is a friendly, neighbourhood charity, which provides services that enrich the lives of isolated people in and around Southampton.
Annie explains: “We’re here to help people truly live their best lives, not just to exist. Extensive research shows that loneliness has a serious impact on both physical and mental health, and it’s often described as a ‘silent killer’.
“Anyone who can sow, grow or pot up spare plants for us to sell, or who is able to come along and buy on the day, will be directly supporting our vital – and often lifesaving – work. We would be incredibly grateful for every bit of green‑fingered help.”
Communicare’s services are staffed by its devoted volunteers, known as Communiteers, who give their time freely.
The charity is currently supporting more than 750 individuals/families through tasks including, befriending, transport for appointments and assistance with shopping and always needs more donations and volunteers to help with its work.
The services it provides are free to users, although beneficiaries are invited to make a donation if they are able to, and Communiteers are offered expenses.
The Spring Plant Sale takes place at CommuniBakes at 21, St James Road, Shirley, Southampton on Saturday, May 16 from 10am until 12pm. Donations should only be dropped at the bakery from 8.30am on the day of the event.
To find out more, please visit www.communicareinsouthampton.org.uk.
