Who we are
At Back to Basics, we're a collective of individuals united by a shared concern for the direction of our world.
In today's fast-paced society, we've noticed a concerning trend: essential skills like cooking, building, farming, and repairing are fading into obscurity. These were once passed down through generations, but now, many lack them, leaving a gap that could disadvantage future generations.
We've become accustomed to instant gratification, from fast food to prefab houses, sacrificing quality and sustainability in the process. Our disconnect from the natural rhythms of the earth has led to factory-made, chemical-laden food that compromises our health and immune systems. It's time for a change, starting with small steps today to secure a better future for our children and grandchildren.
Our charitable aims
Our aims are clear: to support those in need in Sandwell and across the UK, regardless of age, health, or financial circumstances. We provide opportunities to learn essential skills, particularly effective farming techniques, through workshops, events, and grants.
Everyone deserves the chance to grow their own food sustainably, have a local food source, and access practical, hands-on education — which is why we're committed to reclaiming land for communal use. Through workshops, family events, school trips, and programmes for care home residents, we create spaces for learning and activity.
Our focus is on organic farming, as it aligns with our values of sustainability and health. From making natural plant feed to seed banking, we cover a range of techniques to empower individuals to cultivate their own food and nurture the earth.
“Demonstrating to the public, irrespective of age or disabilities, how to grow their own produce using organic and traditional methods. Providing a space and workshops with qualified tutors in permaculture and horticulture, in order to learn for themselves.”
What we do
We empower individuals and communities through hands-on learning and sustainable practices.
Skills Workshops
Interactive workshops where participants learn essential skills like cooking, building, farming, and repair work with qualified instructors.
Family Events
Fun-filled weekend events providing opportunities for families to bond while learning about sustainable living practices.
Educational Trips
Schools are invited for educational day trips where students get hands-on experience in practical farming techniques.
Community Outreach
Programmes for residential care homes, offering residents a chance to reconnect with nature through gardening and activities.
Organic Farming
Promoting organic farming methods — from natural plant feed to aquaponics — that are gentle on the earth and beneficial to health.
Land Repurposing
Reclaiming unused land to create communal spaces for farming, education, collaboration, and reconnecting with nature.
Safeguarding & governance
As a charity that works with children, young people, older adults, and people with disabilities, safeguarding is central to everything we do. All staff and volunteers working with vulnerable groups hold current Enhanced DBS certificates. We maintain comprehensive safeguarding, health & safety, and equal opportunities policies.
We are governed by an independent board of trustees and our accounts are independently examined and filed annually with the Charity Commission.
Join us in rediscovering the joy of going back to basics.
Whether you want to volunteer, attend a workshop, or support our work — we'd love to hear from you.