Hartlepool mental health patients help new therapeutic garden space to flourish

What started as an allotment plot 18 months ago has blossomed into the Waverley Wellbeing Garden and is a space of peace and harmony filled with vegetables and plants maintained by several adult mental health teams.

Managed by the Hartlepool occupational therapy hub team, which is part of the Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust, the garden was renamed by patients and staff this summer to reflect its growing role in recovery and wellbeing.

Located in Hartlepool Borough Council’s Waverley Terrace allotments area, the garden is more than just a green space.

The facility is also used by partners such as volunteers, resettlement groups and children’s services.

With toilet facilities and a classroom for small training sessions, the site supports a range of activities from occupational therapy assessments to skill-building workshops.

Occupational therapy assistant Darryl Parkinson said: “The space has already had several positive outcomes for our patients.

“Many have moved on to volunteering opportunities in the community as well as developing their own garden space at home.”

Family members and carers also play a meaningful role, contributing equipment, transport and materials while noticing improvements in their loved ones’ wellbeing.

A recent addition to the site is a poly tunnel to allow projects and craft activities to continue during poor weather.

It will also support the growth of flowers and plants that can be sold to help cover day-to-day costs.

“The garden operates on a zero budget, so we rely on donations of materials and equipment,” said Darryl.

“Our staff and patients have embraced sustainability by recycling discarded materials and reviving neglected plants.

“We also fundraise from selling seasonal hanging baskets that our patients have made.”

Patients are involved in shaping the space, building raised beds, timber arches, and obelisks.

Others have created composting stations, bug hotels and even a scarecrow.

All other resources have been generously donated by staff, families and friends.

Darryl added: “Our future plans include a wildlife pond and a sensory garden, with hopes to form a charitable committee to secure further funding for more materials.”

Produce from the garden is shared among the patients who attend the site.

There are also plans to expand this to support food parcels for partner organisations.