Neglected outdoor area transformed into garden

The space outside the Rosewood Unit, which prvoides day support and therapy, was given the makeover by local volunteers from Homebase as part of their work with Macmillan.

The previously-unused space was brought to life for patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families to enjoy.

Lavender was planted to provide a relaxing scent and a new tree was placed behind the bench to make it a pleasant place to sit. The arometherapy treatment rooms will also be able to benefit from the new smells.

The project was overseen by creative art therapist Catherine Hill, who runs art sessions with patients.

“I want to say thank you so much to the Homebase volunteers who transformed our garden today. I know our patients will be so pleased to have a space that feels homely and relaxing and where they can spend precious time with their loved ones. This is especially important when their lives can often be dominated by clinical environments and appointments,” she said.

“Many of our patients are or used to be keen gardeners who can no longer continue with their much loved hobby because of their condition, so I know how much they will appreciate the new space. We also hope to decorate the walls of the area with art work made by the patients and inspired by nature to make it even more personal and special.”

The transformation delighted Macmillan senior partnership manager Miranda Taylor-Gooby.

“I especially want to thank today’s volunteers for reaching out and helping to improve the lives of people with cancer in their local community.”