Staff from the Women and Children’s Unit have been working with our Public Health Nutrition Team to transform an underused and unappealing space within Unit into a garden area for staff, patients and visitors to enjoy.
Funded by the NHS Charities Together, the courtyard was designed by staff to create a space for growing and relaxation.
Staff came together to share their ideas of what they would like in the space. Ideas ranged from the sound of water to fruit trees and herbs. Four raised beds were built off site and installed in the courtyard by local partners who helped to fill with logs, topsoil and compost. Each bed has a different theme—fruit, herbs, vegetables and pollinating flowers.
Helpful wildlife was encouraged into the growing space during some of the monthly drop-in workshops organised by our Community Food Development Worker to increase the use of the green space for growing and wellbeing. This partnership approach helped staff to come together in an open space and share their skills and ideas.
Feedback from staff involved in the project has been very positive with many saying that the garden courtyard provides a space where they can collect their thoughts and help clear their head on a busy day whilst enjoying some fresh air.
Alison McBride, Head of Midwifery/Department Manager, said: “They are also plans to add additional seating and a pergola in conjunction with ITU, so it is very much a joint project.
“The garden was very well used by staff in the nicer weather and we still have a good team of staff volunteers who are helping plant for next year. Children being cared for in the Children’s Ward are also benefitting from working in the garden.
For further information or to get involved email – fv.fvcommunitynutrition@nhs.scot
Details of more case studies and reports on the projects supported by the Public Health Nutrition team can be found on our website.
