The health board’s Green Health Partnership (GHP) has teamed up with the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) to create the relaxing garden

In the heart of Hamilton, children at Udston Hospital are discovering solace in a newly minted garden—a vibrant haven where the hustle of medical routines fades into the background, replaced by the therapeutic sounds of rustling leaves and chirping birds. As they wander through aromatic herb bushes and fruit trees, these young patients no longer just experience the rigidity of clinical care; they engage with nature, encouraging healing in ways that go beyond medication.

Creating a Therapeutic Landscape

The Green Health Partnership (GHP) and the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) have brought this revitalized outdoor space to fruition, thanks to a generous grant from the NHS Charities Together Greener Communities Fund. This collaboration underscores a growing recognition of the importance of green spaces in therapeutic settings, particularly for children who often grapple with anxiety and emotional distress.

Laura Jack, Service Manager of the Specialist Children’s Health Service Unit at NHS Lanarkshire, expressed her enthusiasm: “We are delighted with the refurbishment. The project has brought new life to the outdoor space, creating a calm and inclusive environment for children and young people. It’s now a lovely green space to enjoy and an opportunity to connect with the outdoors—something our service users told us is important to them.”

Benefits of Nature on Mental Health

Research supports the assertion that nature can markedly enhance mental well-being. A study conducted by Dr. Emily R. Thompson at the University of Edinburgh found that exposure to green environments significantly reduces stress levels in children, promoting emotional resilience. “Natural settings can distract from anxiety-triggering thoughts, providing a safe space for reflection and healing,” she noted.

• Biophilia Hypothesis: Humans have an inherent need to connect with nature.
• Nature Exposure: Regular interaction with nature improves mood and reduces psychological distress.
• Community Engagement: Involving local communities in the creation of these spaces fosters a sense of ownership and sustainability.

Vicki Trim, Health Improvement Lead at University Health & Social Care North Lanarkshire, added further insight: “Access to nature and green spaces can have a positive impact on our mental health and well-being. This project is a great example of how working together can create meaningful spaces that make a real difference to people’s lives.”

The Garden’s Features

The newly unveiled garden is designed with elements that encourage gentle activity and engagement. Key features include:

• A bug hotel to promote biodiversity
• Aromatic herbs such as thyme, lavender, and rosemary
• Fruit trees and berry bushes
• A storage shed for tools

These elements allow staff to engage young patients in hands-on activities, from planting herbs to observing insects, creating holistic therapy sessions that blend nature with nurture.

Collaborative Efforts and Community Impact

Collaboration among various entities has made this project possible. Clydesdale Community Initiatives (CCI) played a pivotal role in the garden’s development, enlisting local volunteers who provided both labor and enthusiasm. Ruth McElhinney, Community Development Manager at CCI, remarked on the positive feedback from the volunteers: “The CCI volunteers involved really enjoyed seeing the transformation of this space and gave such positive feedback about their experience developing it.”

The launch event was more than a mere ceremony; it served as a rallying point for the community, emphasizing the need for a collective approach to health and wellness. The collaboration between health services, community organizations, and funding bodies like NHS Charities Together, Starbucks, and Hubbub is a model for future initiatives aimed at enhancing public health through communal efforts.

Community Feedback and Future Perspectives

As the garden begins to fulfill its intended purpose, NHS Lanarkshire staff report an increase in positive interactions and a palpable sense of pride in their workplace. The garden not only benefits the children but also provides staff with a much-needed retreat and reinforcement of their commitment to holistic health practices.

Jack summarized this sentiment well: “For our staff, the space is a source of pride and positivity, reinforcing our commitment to well-being, using our outdoor spaces and all the benefits this can bring.”

Looking Ahead

While the garden is currently in its first phase, plans are underway for further development. Engaging the children in decision-making about future plantings and features will ensure the space continues to evolve in ways that resonate with its users. This focus on co-creation heralds a new era in therapeutic environments: one that values the voices of young patients in shaping their healing spaces.

Through the collaborative efforts of dedicated professionals and community members, the garden at Udston Hospital stands as a testament to the transformative power of nature in mental health care, promising a nurturing escape for children as they navigate their healing journeys.

Source: www.dailyrecord.co.uk