Gardens in Progress
With a number of hospices on our waiting list, in July 2015 we launched the A Million Moments appeal which aimed to raise £1 million to enable a further 5,000 children who are involved in the hospice system to enjoy the benefits of spending time in inspiring gardens and outdoor spaces.
The following gardens fall under the umbrella of the A Million Moments Appeal, and are currently in progress:
Grace House, Sunderland
Having completed Phase 1 at Grace House December, we are currently working with Jody and his team at Bespoke Outdoor Spaces again to create the next phase of the “Nest and Rest Garden” in Sunderland.
Designed by Sean Murray, winner of the BBC’s Great Chelsea Garden Challenge 2015, the garden will provide a place for recreation and enjoyment for the children and families who use the hospice services and provide a safe and peaceful haven. Sean has designed an attractive therapeutic garden which will attract wildlife and also provide an exciting sensory experience for all.
This project has seen generosity from grant making trusts along with support from nearby Cowell’s Garden Centre, Johnsons of Whixley for plants, funds raised by those taking part in Garden Re-Leaf Day, Kew Green Hotels and many others.
It is hoped that the garden will be completed before Easter and officially opened in the summer. This new Greenfingers garden, with its interactive water feature, sensitive planting and sheltered areas will provide families with an invaluable outside space for respite and relaxation, as well as stimulating features that can be used for therapies and reflection.
Robin House, Balloch
On the shores of Loch Lomond, we have been working with the hospice team at Robin House in Balloch, helping them with the design of two new therapeutic and stimulating gardens which we hope will become a reality next year.
We are also looking forward to new Greenfingers gardens at Claire House Children's Hospice (Wirral), Little Harbour Children's Hospice (St Austell) and Richard House Hospice (Beckton, London) becoming a reality, hopefully in 2018.
Due to the generosity of those who support Greenfingers Charity in a variety of ways we have also completed the following gardens under the Million Moments appeal.
- RHS Chelsea Garden at Earl Mountbatten Hospice, Isle of Wight
- Two peaceful gardens at Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, Sheffield
- The Kaleidoscope Garden at Helen & Douglas House, Oxford
- The Courtyard Garden at Keech Hospice Care, Luton.