Garden transformed for children with complex needs

The transformation took place at Firvale, a respite centre based at Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital, which supports children and young people aged 0 to 18 with significant lifelong health needs and disabilities.

The garden transformation was completed through a community project led by WellChild, a national charity for seriously ill children, with support from volunteers at CEF.

CEF volunteers and WellChild workers (Image: Newsquest)

Matt James, chief executive of WellChild, said: "Over the course of the week, the garden has become a place to make happy memories and truly enrich the lives of many children with complex medical needs over the next decade and beyond, allowing them to thrive in their communities with their families and friends."

The project is part of WellChild’s 'Helping Hands' programme, which typically delivers around 30 private garden makeovers each year for seriously ill children across the UK.

The work took place over five days, from September 14 to 18, and was carried out by up to 15 CEF volunteers each day.

Children and nurses at Firvale see the garden (Image: Newsquest)

Paul Church, director of operations for CEF’s Bournemouth region, said: "It's incredible to see what can be achieved when people come together with a shared purpose, giving their time, energy and skills to create something that will make a genuine difference.

"This project is about far more than transforming a garden. It's about creating a welcoming outdoor space where families can spend time together, make memories and enjoy experiences that might otherwise be difficult to access.

"I know the impact of this project will be felt long after the work is finished, and I'm incredibly proud of everyone who has helped bring it to life."

The transformed garden (Image: Newsquest)

In addition to the garden makeover, Hampshire Hospitals Charity has been raising funds to purchase equipment that will further enhance the space.

Donations from community partners would help provide items to support the garden’s ongoing development.

Justin Wright, child health lead for integrated community services at Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: "The children, young people and families who use Firvale have told us how important it is to have an outdoor space that is safe, accessible and enables every child to enjoy being outdoors.

The transformed garden (Image: Newsquest)

"Thanks to the generosity, expertise and hard work of WellChild, CEF and their volunteers, this transformation will make a lasting difference, providing opportunities for play, sensory experiences, relaxation and social interaction in an environment designed specifically for children with complex health needs.

"We know this garden will become a valued part of our service for many years to come, helping children and their families create positive memories together."

Firvale provides specialist care and short breaks for children with complex medical conditions, offering families vital respite and support.