Airedale Hospital garden aims to boost patient mental health

The project at Airedale Hospital, Steeton, was funded by an NHS trust innovation programme

A sensory and edible garden has opened at a West Yorkshire hospital aiming to boost the mood and wellbeing of mental health patients.

The area was created by occupational therapist Beth Chesworth at Airedale Hospital in Steeton.

She received funding from Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust's innovation development programme, which encourages staff to come up with ideas.

Tending plants helped patients with stress relief and relaxation, she said.

"The edible garden is packed with plenty of fruit and vegetables," Ms Chesworth said.

"Patients can take the time to grow these to support their mental health and wellbeing, benefitting from being in nature and taking pride in cultivating their own plants."

Beth Chesworth (l) created the garden to boost patients' wellbeing

The project was paid for by the trust's iCare programme.

Ms Chesworth added: "Patients and staff have credited the horticultural groups with improving mood and inspiring others to engage in more nature-based activities in the future."