Community comes together to open new care home garden

The close-knit community of Haddenham in Buckinghamshire was brought even closer together when a garden design company, along with volunteers from local businesses, joined forces to open a brand new garden for the residents at our care home.

After completing a pond rebuild at our Stonehill House care home in Haddenham earlier this year, Landmark Garden Design decided that the outdoor spaces could benefit from a face lift, making them even more relaxing and inviting for residents.

Keen to give something back to a local charity, the team at Landmark approached the house and very kindly offered a complete re-design and build of the garden, completely free of charge.

"I just thought it would be nice to create a charity project in the form of a free garden," says Rodney Lovell of Landmark Garden Design. "I've considered it before but never committed to doing it, so when we were invited to re-build the pond for Abbeyfield I seized the opportunity."

Through plenty of hard work and the kindness of dedicated volunteers from Aston Rowant Cricket Club and Eposability, as well as donations for skip hire and machinery from businesses in the local area, this incredible project is now complete, providing a transformed outdoor space for the residents at the home to enjoy.

"People helped through genuine kindness, having days off work, giving up Saturdays, working in the rain and mud when they normally work in an office!" Rodney goes onto say. "Suppliers were helpful and generous with both materials and their time."

In keeping with the Abbeyfield ethos, the overall aim of the project was to form connections and bridge gaps within society, both between the generations as well as between local businesses. The team also wanted our residents to get involved where possible, helping to keep them staying active and get them out enjoying some fresh air.

The result is truly amazing. While the garden has always been pleasant area that residents enjoy, it now boasts an all weather pergola with raised flower beds, gravelled paths, tables and bird baths, making it the ideal place for relaxing in the sunshine.

"It's an incredible project" says Lindsey, House Manager. "It has exceeded our expectations. A massive thank you to all involved."

The garden was officially opened at the grand opening party where residents, staff and the team involved in the project all came together to enjoy cake and a glass of bubbly or two. Unfortunately, thanks to the great British weather, the festivities had to be enjoyed inside!

Speaking about the outcome of the project, Rodney at Landmark said "We hope residents can see that people outside of their close friends, family, and care staff are interested in making a difference for them and the wider community.

"No one involved in the project knew anyone in the Care Home, it was pure generosity and kindness. We hope the residents, staff, and guests can enjoy the garden and weather pergola all year."