We are looking at improving the sensory area in our park and have applied to the National Garden scheme for help with this project- Currently this area has two raised beds with herbs, a bird feeding area, a pagoda structure with a central picnic table and scented shrubs and plants around one side, currently fragrant daffodils are being planted around another side. We wish to relocate the picnic table, replacing it with a central planter, containing other fragrant shrubs and plants, adding two planters next to two of the uprights of the pagoda with scented climbers, and install a circular bench along one side.
The sensory area has already made a tremendous difference to the wellbeing of residents in our community, especially those suffering from memory loss or sight impairment by taking in the scent of the herbs by touch or smell and listening to the birds feeding. Some of our volunteers have suffered from loneliness and social isolation and by helping to look after this area have made new friends and improved their mental health and general wellbeing. The improvements we plan for this area, will extend the seasons of the scented plants shrubs and herbs, by introducing additional planting in the seating area.
By moving the existing picnic table and installing a curved bench it will allow residents who have limited mobility to sit and enjoy ambience, allowing any wheelchair users to sit next to them and engage in conversation.
The project will positively affect the wellbeing of hundreds of people, the footfall in the park already exceeds 100 people a day, with many more on warmer days, a good percentage of these use the sensory area for relaxation and reflection. This area of the park also has stunning views across a canal to open countryside. The scented daffodils being planted were donated by The Three Villages Community Action Group CIC, some of our volunteers have just panted these 250 bulbs and enjoyed a coffee or tea and a get together to discuss other areas of the park that need maintenance. One other project is the repainting of our two friendship benches. Hopefully, these will be complete by Christmas.
See photos.