A WILDFLOWER seed giveaway by Platform Housing Group, which manages homes across the Midlands including communities such as Ross on Wye, has proved a hit, with 500 free packets distributed to residents and local groups as part of a campaign to boost biodiversity.

Platform launched its Create a Buzz Planting with Platform campaign in the lead up to the International Day for Biological Diversity, encouraging communities to sow wildflowers and support pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Backed by sustainability partner Jones Lang LaSalle, a real estate organisation offering investment and leasing alongside facilities and construction solutions, the initiative saw customers and staff unite to plant seeds in gardens, office spaces and community patches across the region.

Ms Lianne Taylor, sustainability director at Platform Housing Group, said: “Wildflowers aren’t just beautiful to look at, they play a vital role in supporting our bees, butterflies and other pollinators, which are in decline. Even a small patch of wildflowers can make a big difference to our local ecosystems.”

Since the 1930s, an estimated 97 per cent of the UK’s wildflower meadows have been lost. With pollinators heavily reliant on these habitats for nectar and pollen during the warmer months, campaigns like this aim to reverse the damage and help nature recover.

Staff from Platform also rolled up their sleeves, planting wildflower beds at offices and shared spaces. Among those taking part was Mr Saul Taylor Patrick, who said: “There’s something really uplifting about doing something hands on for the environment. I’m excited to watch our patch grow and bloom.”

Ms Fiona Hollingworth, director of affordable housing at the real estate organisation, added: “We are delighted to be sponsoring such an important campaign. It provides a wonderful opportunity for Platform’s customers and staff to work together in a positive way to increase biodiversity and pollination in their neighbourhoods.”