Green Fingers at Brendoncare Park Road

Brendoncare Park Road has just launched a gardening group for residents at the Winchester-based care home.

Gardening and garden projects are proving to have mental and well-being benefits for the nursing home residents. They are enjoying being more active and engaged in a creative and fun way.

Joan Smith, a resident at Brendoncare Park Road, commented, “I’ve always enjoyed gardening and it’s good to be able to continue doing this without the heavy or mucky bits, although I do enjoy the mud! It’s nice to know someone is able to help if you get stuck too!

“I’m pleased that Tony, my fellow gardener, is quite happy to hold the black bag while we are tidying or sweeping up, and he’s good at organising and directing us!”

Wendy Falla, Activities Coordinator, said, “I am a keen gardener and was delighted when some of the residents showed an interest in spending time outside in the garden too.

“Our little gardening group is meeting every week and we have a different job to do each week, from planting seeds, making hanging baskets and planting pots. We have lots of fun together and we are hoping that more residents will join in as the weather gets warmer. We are more than happy for residents, who may not want to get stuck into gardening, to join us in the fresh air for a chat and company.

“We are doing our bit for the environment too. We are recycling bottles for planting the seeds.”

Brendoncare Park Road is run by Winchester-based charity, The Brendoncare Foundation. It provides nursing, respite and end-of-life care to 40 older people in Winchester. It is located in a tranquil part of Winchester and has attractive mature gardens.

More information about Brendoncare Park Road can be found on the charity’s website www.brendoncare.org.uk, 01962 869287, parkroad@brendoncare.org.uk. Facebook @BrendoncareParkRoad