Matt Wilcock‘s journey into local action began during the 2020 lockdown, eventually leading him to the Bzz Community Garden by West Norwood Bus Garage in 2021.

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Since then, Matt has founded “Leaves Breathe,” a social enterprise that supports residents across 24 community gardens in London – such as council estates, playgrounds, and homes for the elderly. His work has seen these grassroots groups evolve far beyond planting; these groups also launch independent allotments, organised vital social events for isolated individuals, spearheaded food bank drives, and built a powerful network of peer-to-peer mentorship.

Matt is running for Knight’s Hill because he believes that when a community finds its voice – in a garden or beyond – it gains the momentum to tackle the ward’s biggest challenges. Matt wants a council that acts as an enabler, providing direct representation and increased funding for Tenants and Residents Associations (TRAs) and local groups. For Matt, these organisations are the backbone of a resilient neighbourhood. By building “social muscle” at the street level, he aims to ensure that Knight’s Hill isn’t just managed from Brixton, but is empowered to lead its own future with the resources it deserves.