About the Friends

The people, structure and care behind Newenden Meadow.

Newenden Meadow is a community endeavour supported by a simple, transparent organisational framework. This page explains who we are, how the meadow is managed and how decisions are made. Everything here exists to keep the work open, steady and accountable.

Friends of Newenden Meadow

A community group caring for a shared landscape.

Friends of Newenden Meadow pay an annual subscription of £10 towards the costs of things like seeds, plants, tools and equipment, hay cutting and collection. Some of those Friends also volunteer and help with planting, seed collection, wildlife surveys, mowing, maintenance and seasonal work throughout the year.

Newenden Meadow Limited

A living landscape shaped through time, care & nature's rhythm

A company created to hold responsibility on behalf of the community.

Newenden Meadow Limited (a company limited by guarantee) was founded to support the long term restoration of the meadow. This model ensures that no individual profits financially and that the organisation acts solely for the benefit of the meadow and the community.

NML manages finances, agreements, reporting and governance. The company’s officers and their roles are:

Membership of Newenden Meadow Limited is a free optional add-on to being a Friend. Please note that it is subject to acceptance by the Board. It is an opportunity to get more involved behind the scenes and be part of shaping NML going forward. Liability per person is limited to £1 in the events of the company being wound up.

Field Manager: Jillian Eldridge

Practical care that guides the meadow through its seasons.

As Field Manager, Jillian Eldridge coordinates the day-to-day work in the meadow — planning tasks, guiding volunteers, monitoring wildlife activity and ensuring the field is managed safely and in tune with seasonal change.
Her close relationship with the meadow helps shape how each habitat develops over time.

Working with the Selmes Trust

Partnership with the landowners for long-term stability.

The meadow is owned by the Selmes Trust, a long-standing local charity. Newenden Meadow Limited work closely with the Trust to secure the future of the field.

Discussions are ongoing to establish a formal lease, ensuring that the meadow can continue to be restored, cared for and enjoyed by the community for years to come. This shared approach gives the meadow its stability and long-term direction.

Community Engagement

An open door for the local community

Every year, we hold a community Meeting to welcome Friends old and new to review the past year, the plans for the future and to invite ideas.

Thinking of Starting Something Similar?

If you’re working on a similar project, it would be great to collaborate.

We are still finding our way and learn something new every day. We’re happy to share our journey and would welcome the opportunity to share knowledge and information to the mutual benefit of our endeavours.