Prince's Trust Project Transforms Care Home Garden

Residents from Loxley Lodge in Nottingham have been given a new lease of life following the complete transformation of their garden by a team of young volunteers from the Prince’s Trust. Four young volunteers, aged between 16 and 25 years old, selected the ambitious care home project as part of a 12-week programme of activity. They worked hard outdoors through inclement weather, in addition to raising funds in order to deliver what they promised and more, in their designated two weeks. Comments Andy Ward,  Team Leader and member of supporting organisation the Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service; “This was a particularly challenging project as there was a great deal to achieve on the wish list, including a pond and a circular wheelchair route around the garden. The volunteers were exceptionally enthusiastic and had big plans. At times I thought they were too big. “But the garden is complete and looking fantastic. I saw a team that really pulled together, despite some very poor weather, and they should be immensely proud of themselves. Their involvement in this project was set to give them an insight into the wider community, but I think they got so much more out of this one - we have new bonds and relationships with the residents of this home and are returning to celebrate with them on their Open Day”. The garden can now be accessed by the residents and has a circular route around, which is suitable for wheelchairs. Freshly painted and wheelchair-friendly bright planters offer new activities for residents, an attractive pond adjoins the patio area and the uneven ground has been levelled out, cleared up and is looking enticing and ready for the new season. Home Manager Heather King says; “The transformation has been incredible and during the several sunny days recently, we have already seen our residents and their families using our new space. We have been so impressed by this project, which included everything from securing the rabbit run to moving the greenhouse. We now have an inviting space in which our residents can explore and enjoy”. The Prince’s Trust volunteers will be taking part in the Loxley Lodge Open Day on Saturday 9th April. Loxley Lodge and Orchard Care Homes extend their thanks to Andrew Hawes, Shannon Draper, Violet Devonshire and Abbey Braithwaite, together with Team Leader Andy Ward and Team Support Lucy Hunt. Loxley Lodge Open Day: Date: Saturday 9th April Time: 10:30am – 3.30pm Address:  Loxley Lodge, School Street, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG17 7BT