Children’s Ward Garden Given New Lease Of Life

In an update to a story we published last week, a project to create a garden for young people led by the IW NHS Youth Forum has been officially opened. 

Thanks to the Youth Forum, Isle of Wight Rotary and Artswork, the Children’s Ward garden at St Mary’s Hospital has been completely renovated and is now a vibrant outdoor space where patients and their families enjoy spending time.

The garden was originally refurbished in 2009 in memory of James Sparks, a patient who sadly died on the ward. 

The Youth Forum had a vision to create a space for young people age 11 years and above to spend time in that was multi-functional and accessible and with the help of partners the garden has been designed to offer just that; a quiet space where young people can relax, socialise with others or have fun and play games.

Abigail Metcalfe, IW NHS Youth Forum Chair said: 

“This was an incredibly important project for the Youth Forum.

"Knowing the positive impact an outdoor space would have on Children's Ward, and the importance of youth voice in projects such as these, we were determined to make the garden the best it could be.

"We couldn’t be happier with how the space turned out and feel privileged to have played such a big part in a project that we hope will bring laughter, joy, relaxation and calm to all those on the Children’s Ward for many years to come.”

The Isle of Wight Rotary has supported the Children’s Ward garden since it was first established and raised an incredible £10,000 to fund a large part of the project including the decking which has made the area accessible for people with a disability as well as being easy to maintain.

Rob Adams, Assistant District Governor for the Isle of Wight Rotary said: 

“The original Children’s Ward garden was created many years ago by the Vectis Sunrise Rotary Club and we wanted to help revitalise the garden so we began fundraising in November 2023, with support from grants provided by WightAid, Rotary District, contributions from all the Rotary clubs on the island and additional donations from local businesses and individuals.

"This newly transformed garden will offer patients a pleasant outdoor space that they can enjoy at any time.”

Artswork is a national charity which empowers children through arts and culture. 

The project was part of Artswork's Young Cultural Changemakers programme on the Isle of Wight, funded by the UK Government through Arts Council England.

Thanks to funding of £15,000 and the creative work of artist Laura Hathaway the garden now has beautiful nature inspired artwork on the walls, planting in moveable planters, comfortable seating, a willow wigwam, bird boxes and a growing wall including an area that is dedicated to James' memory that will have a QR code that leads visitors to his story.

Peta Rainford, Artswork Placemaking Creative Producer for the Isle of Wight said:

“Artswork is dedicated to empowering young people through creativity. 

"The project was very much youth-led and directed by the Forum, though supported by Children's Ward staff. 

"We put out an open call for artists and through a selection process, much like Dragons' Den, members of the IW NHS Youth Forum had the opportunity to choose their designer, as it was their project and they selected local artist, Laura Hathaway."

Laura Hathaway, Local Isle of Wight Artist, said:

"It was such a pleasure to work with and facilitate the ideas of the incredible young people from the NHS Youth Forum on this project.

"From the very start, their enthusiasm and creativity shone through, and it was a privilege to collaborate and help bring their vision to life.

"Every brushstroke and design element reflects the thoughtfulness and creativity of these young people, who were dedicated to creating a space that brings comfort and joy to all who visit the garden."

Becky Hepworth, Children’s Ward Matron said:

“Outside space is very important for wellbeing and can bring a feeling of calmness during stressful times, particularly for young people in mental health crisis who are admitted to Children’s Ward.

"Having an outside space that offers an escape from the clinical area will undoubtably have a positive impact on them and enhance their care.

“The IW NHS Youth Forum brought our vision to life, working evenings and weekends, designing, painting and creating a space that represented what young people would want."