"Standing on Your Own Two Feet" refers to achieving personal independence and self-reliance. In the context of the Vale of Evesham, this concept is deeply rooted in the community's commitment to self-sufficiency and a return to traditional, sustainable practices.

Core Aspects of Self-Sufficiency in the Vale of Evesham
Local Food Production:

Growing Your Own: Encouraging residents to cultivate their own fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Local allotments and community gardens support this initiative, fostering a culture of homegrown produce.
Farmers' Markets: Supporting local farmers and producers through regular markets, which provide fresh, locally-sourced food and reduce dependence on external supply chains.
Renewable Energy:

Sustainable Practices: Promoting the use of renewable energy sources such as solar panels, wind turbines, and biomass. These practices help reduce reliance on non-renewable resources and lower energy costs for households.
Community Energy Projects: Initiatives to collectively invest in and benefit from renewable energy projects, enhancing local energy security.
DIY Skills and Craftsmanship:

Traditional Skills: Reviving skills such as sewing, woodworking, and preserving food, which were once common in rural communities. Workshops and classes help pass on these skills to new generations.
Local Workshops: Providing spaces for residents to learn and practice DIY techniques, fostering a sense of community and self-reliance.
Waste Reduction and Recycling:

Composting: Encouraging composting of organic waste to create nutrient-rich soil for gardens. This practice reduces waste and promotes sustainable gardening.
Recycling Programs: Implementing robust recycling systems to minimize waste and support the circular economy.
Community Support Networks:

Skill Sharing: Creating networks where community members can exchange skills, resources, and knowledge. This includes bartering systems, shared tool libraries, and collaborative projects.
Support Groups: Establishing local groups that offer assistance and advice on achieving self-sufficiency, including gardening clubs, energy cooperatives, and craft circles.
Economic Independence:

Local Enterprises: Supporting small businesses and local entrepreneurs who contribute to the self-sufficiency of the Vale. This includes everything from craft breweries to local artisans.
Job Creation: Fostering job opportunities within the community that align with self-sufficiency goals, such as roles in sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, and local manufacturing.
Back to Your Roots
The phrase "Back to Your Roots" emphasizes reconnecting with traditional practices and values that promote self-sufficiency. In the Vale of Evesham, this means:

Reviving Traditional Agriculture: Embracing methods used by past generations, such as crop rotation, organic farming, and heritage breeds of livestock.
Cultural Heritage: Celebrating local history and traditions that support sustainable living, including festivals, fairs, and community gatherings that honor the area's agricultural legacy.
Personal Responsibility: Encouraging individuals to take charge of their own needs and contribute to the community's overall resilience and independence.
By focusing on these principles, the Vale of Evesham aims to build a self-sufficient community that honors its past while creating a sustainable and independent future.