A brand new sensory garden filled with a vibrant blend of sights, sounds, textures and scents has been unveiled at Derian House Children’s Hospice in Chorley.
The tranquil oasis was officially opened to cheers and smiles from children, young people and staff at a ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday 16 July.
Nestled in a quiet courtyard at the heart of the hospice, the new garden has a number of interactive sensory features and will provide a sanctuary for the hospice’s children, young people and families.
The honour of cutting the red ribbon fell to 19-year-old Maariyah, who visits Derian House, alongside the hospice’s Chief Nurse, Catherine Randall, and Greenfingers’ Chair, Sue Allen.
The garden – which has been donated by Greenfingers, a charity dedicated to creating beautiful outdoor spaces for children’s hospices across the UK – is the vision of designer Chris Forshaw and landscaper Gavin Jones and was guided by project manager Joanne Kennedy.
Catherine Randall, Chief Nurse at Derian House Children’s Hospice, said: “This isn’t just any garden; it is a sanctuary for the 400 families we care for here at Derian. Here, they can relax and spend time together – making precious memories. Not only that, but research has shown that spending time outdoors can help with symptoms, reduce stress, and improve mood in people with life-limiting illnesses.
“Greenfingers’ generosity has created a garden that our families will enjoy for years to come. On behalf of all of us here at Derian House – thank you.”
Sue Allen, Chair of Greenfingers Charity, said: “We’re so pleased to be officially handing over the garden to the Derian House team and would like to thank everyone who has been involved. From fundraising, to volunteering in the garden, to generous gifts in kind – it has created a space that we are sure will be loved and cared for by the hospice community for many for years to come.”
Plants and shrubs throughout the garden were donated by Barton Grange Garden Centre, topsoil and compost were donated by Evergreen, gardening care supplies were provided by Sipcam Home & Garden, and gardening tools were provided by Westland Horticulture.
Derian House, based in Astley Village, Chorley, cares for more than 400 babies, children, young people and their families from across the North West and is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Find out more: www.derianhouse.co.uk
To learn more about the Greenfingers Charity please visit www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk. You can also join in the conversation by joining Greenfingers on social media – https://www.facebook.com/Greenfingerscharity/
