Volunteers build a nature recovery garden: A transformative space to explore nature and help recovery

During Volunteers’ Week, Sheila Stenson, our CEO, officially inaugurated the Oakwood Nature Recovery Garden with a tree-planting ceremony. Just over nine weeks ago, corporate volunteers - local businesses, the trust's dedicated volunteer gardeners - enthusiastic members of the Kent and Medway community came together with our staff to transform a neglected area into a beautiful sensory garden that now supports patients in their recovery journeys.

Sheila expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the gathered volunteers and staff, saying: "The garden is not just beautiful; it's a remarkable sensory experience. This achievement would not have been possible without the generous contributions of our corporate volunteers, who brought this vision to life. Thank you to all our incredible volunteers who tirelessly support us every day. Our volunteers donate over 1,500 hours each month, providing a range of services, from pet therapy to transportation. We couldn't do what we do without you – thank you."

This official opening not only celebrates our sensory garden but also showcases the extraordinary spirit of our community and the commitment of our volunteers during this special week.

Vicky Cooper, our Energy and Environmental Compliance Manager, had the vision for the sensory garden. Vicky recognised the untapped potential of the unused space and its potential to be transformed into a sensory nature garden where patients can connect with nature to support their recovery.

Vicky collaborated with the Kent Wildlife Trust to conduct thorough wildlife surveys, revealing the area's ecological diversity. To bring this vision to life, she partnered with Croudace Homes, whose innovative design for the sensory garden incorporates an array of plants and features that engage all five senses while enhancing local wildlife habitats. The garden is a mosaic of textures, vibrant colours, soothing sounds, and serene wellness spaces, all designed to promote healing and recovery.

Thanks to the generosity of Countrywide, the soil was expertly prepared, while DGR Services provided an accessible path at discounted rates, reinforcing our commitment to inclusivity.

This remarkable project showcases what can be achieved when our staff, patients, trust volunteers, local businesses, and students from Mid Kent College come together in a spirit of generosity and collaboration. It is a testament to the power of community action and shared dedication.

Kirsty McInnes, Charity and Volunteers Manager, shared: "Repurposing this unused area into a sensory garden not only promotes nature and healing but also enhances recovery. It offers our patients an environment where they can engage with others and experience meaningful interactions outside of a clinical setting. The feedback we've received has been overwhelmingly positive; many patients and their loved ones find this space calming and enjoyable."