Growing together: Ward One courtyard transforms into thriving garden
Ward One at Springfield Hospital benefits from two outdoor spaces, but until recently, one of them remained underused. The smaller courtyard, though filled with sunlight and visible from both the corridor and lounge, sat empty. That changed in spring 2025, when a passionate team of staff came together to transform it into a vibrant therapeutic garden.
Led by Occupational Therapist Natalie and Activity Coordinator Dan, they aimed to create a sensory-rich, calming space that would offer therapeutic benefits to patients.
“The garden’s journey started with a generous donation of five tomato plants, with further donations of seeds, pots, and a voucher from Squires Garden Centres. We also had expert guidance from gardening charities Thrive and Share Garden, plus hands-on support from the Trust’s facilities team. The soil was then prepared and patients eagerly got involved with raking, planting and enjoying working with the earth,” said Natalie. Benches were also added for those who preferred to sit and enjoy the space quietly, making the garden inclusive and accessible.
As the garden grew, so did the enthusiasm. “Jalapeños and chilli peppers were planted to reflect patients’ love of spicy food, while strawberries and mint added refreshing flavours and scents,” said Dan. “Patients also chose their own seeds, like lettuce, rocket, peas, and each was given a sunflower to nurture, labelled with their name.”
Talking about the impact the garden has had, Natalie said: “It’s been a great space for patients to come out to. It’s different from our other courtyard – more therapeutic, more sensory-focused. The mint and tomato plants have a lovely fragrance, and it’s sparked conversations around shared interests between staff and patients. People also feel more motivated to engage with the garden because we’re trying to keep something alive”.
Dan added, “We’ve seen the benefits not just in the garden, but in our activity groups too. The produce has been used in food prep or tasting sessions. Watering has also become part of the daily routine and a popular group activity. It’s also sparked conversations, encouraged teamwork, and created joyful moments throughout all our days.”
Thanks to the hard work of Natalie, Dan, and others, what was once an empty, unused space, has been transformed into a thriving garden that bring connection, relaxation, joy and edible rewards.
