Work kicks-off on garden for patients

Feb 18 2008 By Gurdip Thandi

WORK to create a patients' garden in a hospital's grounds is finally under way.

South Staffordshire Primary Care Trust chairman Alex Fox dug out the first piece of earth for the garden at Sir Robert Peel Community Hospital in Tamworth.

The project was launched two years ago in a bid to transform an enclosed space at the hospital into a "living garden" where patients, their carers and relatives could visit.

More than £7,000 has been raised since the launch with fund-raising activities and contributions from organisations including the League of Friends, Tamworth Lions Clubs, Tamworth Rotary and donations from patients and relatives.

Dawn Llewellyn, professional lead acute nursing and Dawn Perry, occupational therapist at the hospital, have been responsible for leading the activities.

Dawn said: "The development of the garden is very important to so many people.

"Our aim is to create a vibrant, colourful and safe area for people to wander, sit and relax, and we feel this will be achieved."

After helping to start the foundations of the garden, Mr Fox said: "Thanks to the tremendous generosity, hard work and enthusiasm of so many groups and individuals, including staff at the hospital, patients, visitors and the community. So many people will be able to enjoy this therapeutic oasis."

The garden, due to be completed in June, will have ample seating areas.