SENSORY GARDEN UPDATE

 

Box Hill hospital adolescent mental health ward (AIPU) : revamp  of sensory garden project

 
We were asked for support to improve and revamp their sensory garden which was installed by another (unknown) Rotary Club from the area many years ago. The garden was overgrown, the furniture in need of repair and the water feature/fountain had stopped flowing. The space was looking generally unloved. Club members Sheridan and Katrina visited the garden earlier this year and talked with the staff about their wishes and started to form a plan.

The BEFORE photos

 
 
 
In June we conducted a working bee and busily pruned and weeded and dismantled rotted bits and pieces (Katrina and husband Mick, Noel, Denbigh, Sue). We talked to the staff about other needs which included a new table and chair set. After more discussions with the staff it was  agreed that a  metal outdoor dining suite would be most suitable (strong but light and safe) and it was purchased and delivered in October. 
 
Sue Z was able to spruce up the cactus wall feature and provide advice for ongoing care. 
 
Then this week Noel, Denbigh and Katrina revisited the garden and installed a new pump in the water feature/fountain and planted up 2 large garden planter boxes (one with herbs and one with flowers for colour). We were delighted to see the new table and chairs (with new painted mural on the table top) as well as new wall murals. The new painting of the murals was facilitated by an art therapy student. A great team effort and just a small way we are able to make a difference. The plan is for the staff and patients to maintain the area but we will check in periodically and see what we can do to keep the area as lovely and useable as it is now. 

The AFTER photos

 
 
Katrina Flinn
Community Service Director
7th December 2023