Thursday 30 May 2024 marked the official opening of a new mindfulness garden at Halstead Community Hospital. The garden, a tranquil space designed for patient rehabilitation and staff relaxation, was made possible through the generous funding of The League of Friends, with support from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).
The ceremonial ribbon was cut by the Lord Lieutenant of Essex, who also added a plant to one of the flower beds, in a gesture that underlined the community’s commitment to enhancing patient care and staff wellbeing.
Alan Symington, Chair of The League of Friends, said: “The League of Friends of Halstead Hospital have combined with NHS Properties and Halstead in Bloom to sponsor a mindfulness garden designed and overseen by the RHS.
“The garden will provide a place for patient rehabilitation and care as well as being a quiet oasis for Provide Community staff. We owe thanks to feedback from the Halstead Community and Alison Findlay, the RHS lead, for all their hard work and patience overcoming numerous challenges.
“We are very proud of the outcome and grateful to the Lord Lieutenant of Essex for giving up her time to open the garden officially “
Bridgette Beal, Director of Nursing and Allied Health Professions at Provide Community, said: “The mindfulness garden represents a significant addition to Halstead Community Hospital, offering a serene environment for recovery and reflection.
“The RHS’s expertise ensured that the garden not only meets therapeutic needs but also contributes to the hospital’s aesthetic appeal.
“Thank you again to everybody who has been involved in this project. Patients, visitors and our colleagues now have access to a space designed to promote mental health and well-being, reflecting the community’s dedication to holistic healthcare.”
The opening event was attended by the Lord Lieutenant of Essex, Provide Community hospital staff and senior management, stakeholders who have been involved in the development of the garden and hospital patients and visiting family members, all of whom celebrated the collaborative effort that brought this project to fruition.
