Tranquility gardens open at Newham Hospital
Courtyard gardens at Newham Hospital have been transformed into tranquility spaces in memory of those who died during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The gardens, which were completed on Friday 12 June, are open to staff, patients and visitors and aim to provide areas for retreat and comfort.
The week-long project was managed by Ground Control, a landscaping and maintenance services company, as a way of expressing its thanks to all NHS staff caring for patients during the Covid-19 pandemic. Memorial plaques have also been added to the gardens in memory of those who died during the pandemic.
Adam Sewell-Jones, Interim Chief Executive at Newham Hospital said:
“The replenished tranquility gardens will provide a much needed space for visitors to reflect and remember those who sadly lost their lives to Covid-19. I’d like to thank Ground Control and supporters for the work they have done to transform the gardens.
“The therapeutic and restorative nature of hospital green spaces is widely evidenced and I believe the new tranquility gardens will go a long way in supporting the wellbeing of our staff, patients and visitors.”
In total, eight of the gardens and green spaces at Newham Hospital have been revamped and upgraded to become green havens for reflection.
Giuseppe Labriola, Associate Director of Midwifery and Nursing, said:
“A few months ago this space was full of six-foot high weeds and it hadn’t been used for some time. It’s been brought back to life and refurbished and now we have a perfect area for women to mobilise who are in the early stages of labour and for staff to use to grab a quick breath of fresh air. It’s been completely transformed and we’re really thankful for everyone who’s been working on the project.”
Each of the gardens have received a range of new plants to complement the garden’s character, with the ultimate aim of providing respite from the surrounding built up environment. A collection of new garden furniture has also been added to allow more opportunity to sit and take a moment of reflection.
Chris Bawtree, construction project manager at Ground Control, said:
“There’s never been a more important time to provide a peaceful retreat for front line workers, patients and their friends and family.
“This is a practical way of saying ‘thank you’ and showing our support for the amazing work undertaken by all NHS staff especially during the pandemic.”
The Tranquility gardens were delivered by Ground Control in partnership with a wide number of suppliers, clients, donors, business associates and volunteers.