Herbspace is a not for profit social enterprise working with young people in a therapeutic garden. Specifically it is a Community Interest Company, meaning a limited company that is run for the benefit of the community in order to create positive social change. We have a board of 4 Directors.
Herbspace was founded by Jane McCormack and Kathy Duncan at the end of 2016 in recognition that many young people need a safe space to be themselves and escape the sometimes hectic world they live in. The growing of herbs, which are themselves inherently healing, encourages a connection with nature that these days is often absent in many peoples’ lives.
From 2018 to 2025 we were based in the gardens of the Abbey Nursing Home in North Berwick – a hidden away, low tech haven in North Berwick and core to our success. It was a wrench to leave, but at the beginning of 2025 we moved to the outdoor space of the old nursery behind the Community Centre on Law Road. Although a very different, more urban space we are enjoying creating a productive and wildlife friendly garden where young people can visit and get a break from busy lives.
We are extremely grateful to North Berwick Trust who have agreed to continue supporting Herbspace and have given us a grant for 3 years from 2024-2027.
We are also very pleased to have again received funding from East Lothian Council’s One Partnership Fund to support our work in 2025/2026.
We have been given some amazing support by:
North Berwick High School Guidance and Support Staff
Stepping Out who have lent us their yurt to provide us with shelter for gathering and meditation, and without which we would never survive the winter weather.