A new 'therapy garden' will be built at Stepping Hill Hospital to help patients with long-term health / mobility issues, or dementia. 

The £68,000 project will transform what is currently a neglected courtyard area into a "tranquil, relaxing garden space". 

Based at the acute frailty unit, the garden will offer not just a space for relaxation, but also a spot for structured outdoor activities to aid patients' physical and mental recovery. 

It has been funded by a grant from the Greener Communities Fund, a partnership between environmental charity Hubbub and NHS Charities Together, funded by a Starbucks 5p cup charge. 

Both the garden, and the initiative which funds it, is based on mounting evidence that exposure to nature has marked health benefits.

Research commissioned by the Greener Communities Fund found that 8 in 10 of us feel healthier and more energetic after spending time in nature, and 70% report improved mental and physical health, from better sleep to reduced stress and improved mood. 

The notion that nature improves our wellbeing is increasingly being borne out by research (Image - Erda Estremera / Unsplash)

Kate Leadbeater, Charity Manager at Stockport NHS Charity said the hospital team was 'delighted' to have been awarded the grant. 

"[It] will enable us to transform a previously unused space into a calming and welcoming garden area for the benefit of our patients", she said. 

"Having access to a dedicated space where they can enjoy spending time in nature away from clinical spaces is so important and we're excited to get this project underway with our experienced community partner Groundwork Greater Manchester, using their expertise in designing and developing landscapes to improve physical and mental wellbeing."  

Ellie Orton OBE, Chief Executive at NHS Charities Together, said: "We know that there is a strong link between green spaces and improved health and wellbeing, but unfortunately there remains significant inequality in access to these spaces. [...] 

"We look forward to working with the team in Stockport to bring to life their visions and see first-hand the significant impact that these green spaces will have on staff, patients and local communities alike."

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