Work on a new recovery garden for stroke survivors is now underway at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital King’s Lynn (The QEH).
The bespoke rehabilitation area, which has been designed specifically for the use of stroke survivors and their families, has been funded by the QEHKL Charity and will cost around £50,000 to build.
Therapeutic area
Located near West Raynham ward, a dedicated stroke ward at The QEH, the outdoor space will serve both as a therapeutic area to aid recovery and a peaceful sanctuary for patients and their families to reflect and unwind. It’s also hoped it will offer the ideal setting for group therapy sessions.
Research shows that time spent outdoors promotes recovery and supports mental wellbeing and the garden will aim to provide a healing environment where patients and loved ones can reconnect with nature.
Designed and constructed by Gavin Jones, who also created the Trust’s Butterfly Garden in memory of families who have experienced the loss of a baby, a gift wishlist has also been launched for items that will help the garden thrive, such as bird seed and tools.
‘A calm, natural setting’
Sarah Barber and Amelia Turner from the hospital’s Stroke Rehabilitation team said: “We are thrilled to see the rehabilitation garden taking shape. This space will offer a calming, natural setting where our patients and their families can relax and reconnect with nature, which is vital for both physical recovery and emotional wellbeing.”
Sam Taylor, Charity Manager at The QEH, added: “The stroke garden is more than creating a space – it’s about offering hope, a place of healing and a peaceful space for those affected by stroke. The QEHKL Charity is proud to be able to facilitate such an important resource’’
Steve Adcock, from The QEH Facilities Team, said: “Seeing the development of the garden in just a few weeks has been incredible. I look forward to when we can officially welcome our first patient to enjoy the garden later in the year.”
Find out more about the QEHKL Charity here.
