Hospital to create sensory garden with new funding

Dorset County Hospital has received a grant for more than £45,000

A hospital has received more than £45,000 to create a sensory garden for patients, staff and visitors.

Dorset County Hospital has been awarded the funding through a Greener Communities Fund.

A sensory garden will now be created in the hospital courtyard, which has previously not been used, opposite the special care dentistry department.

Sustainability manager, Bev Lagden, said the money would help to "transform" the hospital.

Ms Lagden, added: “We are delighted to receive this funding. It will allow us to transform a neglected courtyard into a beautiful tranquil space, so that people can take a break and spend some time in a peaceful garden that stimulates their senses.”

The hospital plans to work with local organisations Kingston Maurward College, Dorchester Men’s Shed and Little Green Change on the planting plan for the garden area, which is also set to include new doors and ground levelling for disabled access.

Director of nursing, Jo Howarth, added: “Whether you’re a patient, staff member or visiting a loved one, it’s important to be able to step away from the busy, and sometimes overwhelming, hospital environment and take a moment.

"We also know that nature can have a positive impact has on people’s physical and mental health and aids recovery, so we’re looking forward to creating this new space.”

It's one of eight projects in the country funded by the Greener Communities Fund which is a partnership between Hubbub and NHS Charities Together, made possible through the Starbucks 5p disposable cup charge.

It was set up to support hospitals in creating green spaces in the hope of improving the health and wellbeing of people in hospitals.

A Dorset County Hospital spokesperson said the garden would be unveiled later in 2024.