Residents at Bourne House, part of Avonbourne Care Centre in Old Sarum, are delighted with their new flower and herb garden, created in just two days by a team from UK Landscapes. The nationwide garden contractors delivered this bespoke project under their Giving Green Back scheme, which releases social value funds to improve outdoor spaces managed by not-for-profit organisations.

Previously underused, the large courtyard had been empty of flowers, as the home had focused its gardening efforts on other areas, including the rear balcony and garden. Earlier this month, the space was transformed by the UK Landscapes team, who built new herb beds, added rose bushes, and introduced other planting features.

Maureen, a resident at the home, exclaimed: “It seemed to appear overnight! It really is a lovely garden – I’m delighted.”

The courtyard, overlooked by 24 bedrooms and four balconies, features four large herb plots, roses, and other fragrant plants such as geraniums and dahlias, all centred around a Hoheria ‘Stardust’ evergreen shrub. It also includes a bird feeding station and two raised planters for growing edible plants. The care home has added seating areas with sunshades, making the garden a welcoming space for residents to enjoy.

The rose bushes and dahlias were bought locally from Alabaré, a Salisbury charity that supports vulnerable people and those experiencing mental health challenges.

Resident Helen said: “I think the garden is a great improvement. I’m looking forward to seeing it blossom. I love being here – it’s really like seventh heaven.”

Sandra, who has a bedroom on the ground floor, was especially pleased with the makeover, as she can now look out at the wildlife visiting the bird feeder. She said: “The team worked very hard, and they’ve done a good job. I like gardening, and I’m looking forward to using the planters and seeing the seedlings grow.”

Kath, another resident, is particularly happy that the garden includes lavender, which she described as “lovely.” She plans to harvest some later in the year to make herb pillows for scenting clothes in drawers and wardrobes.

Carers, including Tracey and Precious, who visited the new garden, are thrilled to have a new space where they can take residents. Everyone is excited to see how the garden develops as the herbs grow, release their scent, and attract bees and butterflies.

Gavin Coe, who championed the project, said: “We were delighted to transform this garden for everyone at Avonbourne Care Centre as part of our Giving Green Back initiative. At UKL, we are passionate about the value of gardens and green spaces – their importance as places to rest, relax, and socialise. It’s rewarding to see how much we could do with this space to make it interesting and attractive for residents, encouraging wildlife and choosing sensory plants and seeds.”

UK Landscapes also donated seed packets to Bourne House and to other OSJCT care homes to support their annual Trust in Bloom gardening competition.

The activities team at Avonbourne Care Centre continues to find ways to encourage gardening among residents. They recently booked a Dig for Dementia session led by Jack, a trained nurse who runs group gardening events. Several residents planted up troughs in the rear garden, which are easily accessible and watered by residents themselves.

Anna, a resident, regularly waters plants at the care home. A former teacher, she gained her gardening knowledge and experience over many years from her father-in-law, a professional gardener. Anna said: “It’s a team effort. I water the plants when I can and share some advice. Sometimes I don’t feel up to it, and I know others will do the watering – including Lesley, one of the wonderful Activities Co-ordinators we have here. I’m very fortunate to live at Bourne House – I really like it a lot.”