New wellbeing garden unveiled
A new wellbeing garden has been unveiled at St Austell Community Hospital's Shaw House.
The Trust is investing in green space as part of its clinical strategy. The garden will provide a tranquil and relaxing area for patients and staff to enjoy. Shaw House is used by CAMHS (child and adolescent mental health service) and MHST (mental health support in school).
The beautiful landscape which now surrounds the Shaw House building took less than 3 weeks to complete.
What was once an empty area of green space now been transformed. The garden features beautiful flower beds, seating areas, a wheelchair friendly table and flat paving which contours along the various areas.
Margaret Schwarz is chair of the Trust. She gave a speech in front of staff, before handing over to Tracey Rogers (head of security, working as the project manager), who cut the ribbon to officially open the garden.
Margaret says:
"This garden represents one more step in the realisation of our clinical strategy to have half of our clinical care delivered in non-traditional settings.
"We are trying hard to encourage creative and nature-based approaches to health and wellbeing alongside our traditional care.
"As an avid gardener I know that the best place to escape from the cares and challenges of my life my garden. Digging, weeding, plucking or just sitting and breathing in the varied smells always improves outlook.
"Not just me, very strong evidence says that being in nature is the best medicine."
The construction of the garden was delivered by Trevor Lyon and Jonathon Lyon, of Greatford Garden Services.
Design work was carried out by Lucy Williams and Jane Everitt, of Landscape Architects for Groundwork, London.
Margaret adds:
"This beautiful new garden provides a space for patients and staff to enjoy. They will benefit from the presence of this calming green space and flourish amidst the beauty.
"We are committed to using our NHS estate to transform space for the benefit of the people of Cornwall.
"I dedicate this garden to the staff who work so tirelessly at Shaw House, and to the patients, families and friends they serve.
"Thanks to Trevor and Jonathan Lyon of Greatford Garden Services for their beautiful execution and thank you to Lucy Williams and Jane Everitt of Landscape Architects for Groundworks, London."
The project was based and funded on the Social Prescribing Programme at NHS Property Services.
Tracey Rogers says:
"It has been a pleasure working with our various teams, architects, and contractors on this concept.
"The benefits of the creation of natural wildlife habitats and peaceful sitting areas within this wellness garden are evident from the moment you enter.
"We are at the start of this journey, and over the next few years, it is hoped that this garden will be of benefit to many who use our services."