NEW SENSORY GARDEN FOR CARE HOME
A Chilton Care home for the elderly has fought back following a burglary last year which saw jewellery and military medals belonging to residents taken (see News article).
Outraged by the theft local residents rallied around and carried out a series of fund raising events to help the residents to get over the traumatic event. As a result of their efforts a new sensory garden has been established for the residents to enjoy.
THE GARDEN WAS OFFICIALLY OPENED ON TUESDAY 12TH JUNE AT 5:30PM WITH MEMBERS OF THE LOCAL COMMUNITY INVITED TO CELEBRATE THE EVENT.
Regulars at the local pub, The Wheatsheaf, who were particularly helpful and were represented at the open day, brought along two bagpipers to help launch the garden with music.
The sensory gardens provide intimate spaces where the elderly can be immersed in the scents, textures and colours of plants and related elements. Along with specially selected plants, the sensory gardens may also include elements such as wind chimes, wind socks, flags and art.
Chilton Care Centre’s garden includes a herb garden, scented plants, raised flower beds which the residents can tend, a summer house and a large fish pond.
Home Deputy Manager Maxine Smith has been the driving force behind the garden, “We wanted to create a useful space which enhances the residents’ experience of staying here. Since we started we have had plenty of volunteers coming in to help develop the garden.”
Maxine’s husband, son and Mum have all given their time freely to work on the garden over the last few weeks.
Home Manager, Michael Beaney said,” It has been fantastic to see the area transformed in just a few weeks, our thanks go to everybody who has helped or contributed in any way. The residents will definitely benefit.”
