‘Outstanding’ Hospice gardens praised by RHS judges

RHS, the UK’s leading garden charity launched the It’s Your Neighbourhood scheme as part of its Britain in Bloom initiative. It celebrates volunteer led community gardening projects which improve the local environment.

Spearheaded by Louise Whitehead and Roy Miller from Dr Kershaw’s Facilities Team, the Hospice’s garden transformation marks the start of its ongoing project to revitalise its landscape and develop its care services.

Work is currently underway to build a new garden-based Wellbeing Centre to provide additional activities and support for people living with life-limiting illnesses.

The new space will also include a children’s play area and plots for patients to grow their own vegetables. Additional privacy for patients will be created through partitioned areas.

Lyndsey Donbavand, Corporate Services Manager at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, said: “A Level 5 rating recognises not only the visual design, but the impact that the gardens have on the services we provide.

“People often don’t see what goes on behind the scenes, but Louise and Roy have worked extremely hard to overcome challenges. Our volunteers have been fantastic too!”

When work began in October 2023, the first job was to clear all of the weeds. The team also worked hard to protect soil life like worms, grubs and caterpillars, plus insects like ladybirds, moths and bees.

A generous donation from Booths Garden Centre included bedding plants, bulbs and compost.

Daffodils and tulips were planted to add colour and brighten the outlook from the Hospice’s Inpatient rooms.

Leaves were reused for compost, whilst cuttings were styled in vases to add extra cheer to the Hospice’s Reception and its Café K.

Lyndsey said: “Everyone really enjoys the gardens, from patients and visitors to our staff. They really make a difference to everyone’s day and are a safe, reflective space.”

RHS judge Roy Down added: “It seems to me that Dr Kershaw’s is in good hands, it looks brilliant now, but it is on the way to being amazing. Well done to everyone who is involved.”