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Dementia garden named as Outdoor Space of the Year
Meadow Green, a purpose-built dementia garden has been named as the ‘Outdoor Space of the Year’ at the 2024 Design in Mental Health Awards.
The awards recognise exemplary design, community spirit, and the very latest innovations in mental health and are considered nationally as the most prestigious awards for design in mental healthcare.
Located at Meadow Ward in Bromsgrove, Meadow Green is a bespoke outdoor space designed specifically for the therapeutic and safe use of patients with a diagnosis of dementia.
It was designed for those receiving specialist dementia care from teams at Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust.
Last year the garden underwent a total transformation and now boasts a corner shop and potting shed, intended to support purposeful engagement for people with dementia.
Patients can also enjoy gardening; with several waist-height vegetable containers to tend to with the support of staff.
"We had ambitions of creating a fully immersive and interactive space where patients could safely engage in activities that would support their wellbeing and ongoing treatment plans.
"We wanted to create opportunities for everyday activities such as going to the shop or tending to the garden, activities that wouldn’t typically be possible during a stay on a dementia ward” explains Sarah Taylor, Ward Manager.
"We are incredibly proud that with the support of the Trust, our Charitable Funds scheme and DSA, our vision has come to life".
The space has been designed to recreate everyday environments and features a shop that can be transformed using decorations and props to become a barber shop, hairdressers, cafe, or post office.
False building facades have typically been used in the design of spaces for people with dementia, however, evidence is now suggesting that functioning spaces such as those in Meadow Green, are crucial in achieving desired care outcomes.
Jonathan Emery of DSA said, "Our experience designing Meadow Green was aided greatly by the ward staff and the Trust’s clear vision for the project. We see Meadow Green as a vital component of the ward environment. This outdoor ward is not only beneficial for the patients, in providing a restful and calming environment, but importantly also the ward staff. This award recognises the unique approach taken and the value of a place such as Meadow Green."
The winners of the 2024 Design in Mental Health Awards were announced on Tuesday 4 June at a ceremony in Manchester.