Growing Green Spaces: Park Road Houses Awarded Grant by Keep Wales Tidy

3 August 2023

Park Road Houses, a 14-bed community rehabilitation unit, has recently been awarded a grant from Keep Wales Tidy to develop a Food Growing Garden.

Inspired by the commitment of the team and patients at Park Road Houses to develop its existing growing space in a challenging environment, the Keep Wales Tidy grant has been awarded to create a horticultural therapy space that fosters a nurturing environment for patients to engage in meaningful activities and aid in their healing process.

The impact of green spaces and horticultural activities on mental health and wellbeing are well documented and engaging in horticultural therapy has been proven to have numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits. The Food Growing Garden will provide patients at Park Road Houses with an opportunity to connect with nature, experience the joy of nurturing plants, and witness the growth and fruition of their efforts. This therapeutic environment will promote relaxation, reduce stress and anxiety, and enhance their overall sense of well-being.

Furthermore, participating in the development and maintenance of the garden will foster a sense of responsibility, teamwork, and accomplishment among patients; creating a supportive community where they can bond with one another and celebrate their successes together.

Owen Baglow, Ward Manager at Park Road Houses, commented: “We are incredibly proud to have been awarded this grant from Keep Wales Tidy and would like to express our gratitude. Our team are passionate about the benefits of green space prescribing and has worked tirelessly to develop our existing space into a horticultural therapy area and has already had some success in growing food.

“This grant will enable us to transform our existing space, giving us more opportunities to nurture the garden area and reap the rewards of green space prescribing and the subsequent benefits of this to mental health and wellbeing. Furthermore, the ongoing support from Keep Wales Tidy to support us to make the most of the space will be invaluable.”

The transformation of the garden space is due to start this month, to stay updated on the progress please keep an eye on the Health Board’s social media channels.