Sandyhurst housing resident inspires with lockdown community garden

A resident at Sandyhurst housing scheme has inspired residents and staff alike with her revamp of the housing scheme’s communal garden.

With lockdown taking its toll on everybody across country, Sandyhurst tenant Gail set out to improve the communal garden as a means of maintain her own mental wellbeing, as well as the rest of the Sandyhurst community. Scheme manager Melissa Parker allocated Gail a specific part of the area all to herself and after clearing the raised bed and the pots, the planting of flowers, shrubs and bulbs began.

Gail said:

In the summer months the garden was filled with colour, birds and a fairy Garden etc. Towards autumn I began work on the area where I have placed decorative stones, a bird bath and a little fence. At Christmas we had a small Christmas tree, with lights and decorations to add colour. I am now planning more improvements this year. The garden has helped my wellbeing and allowed me to immerse myself into my own little world to get me through. Many of the residents have also enjoyed sitting in an area in the communal garden - they enjoy watching the birds and admiring the flowers and ornaments and have told me that it has given them something to focus on through difficult days.

Gail’s dedication to the look and feel of the garden has been met with complete awe from both residents and staff. Scheme manager Melissa said:

Gail has transformed the communal garden! This has had such a positive impact on not only her mental health but other customers who all help out with feeding the birds and sitting in the area. It’s all been funded by residents - I have even bought some solar lights for the trees and wow what a difference it makes to the scheme! We’ve had so many lovely comments from visitors too!

Sandyhurst retirement housing scheme is based in Leicester and offers purpose-built one bedroom properties for people over the age of 55. At Anchor Hanover, we understand that, depending on you lifestyle, sometimes you’ll prefer alone time while at other times, you may want to be more sociable - our properties give you that freedom. Find out more about what Sandyhurst has to offer by visiting our dedicated webpage.