‘This garden is much more than a pleasant outdoor area’: Improved courtyard garden opens at Dewsbury Hospital as 150th anniversary celebrations continue
A newly enhanced courtyard garden has opened at Dewsbury and District Hospital.
The courtyard has been transformed to create a more welcoming and therapeutic environment as part of the hospital’s 150th anniversary celebrations. The improvements include newly installed raised beds, accessible pathways and additional seating.
The area, funded by MY Hospitals Charity, will play a key role in patient care, particularly for those on the Stroke Neuro Rehabilitation ward, where wheelchair users will now be able to take part in gardening activities as part of their rehabilitation programme.
The hospital has said that green spaces like this have proven benefits with access to outdoor environments helping to reduce stress and anxiety, as well as supporting emotional and mental well-being, and contributing to shorter hospital stays.
For patients with longer stays, particularly those on the Stroke Neuro Rehabilitation ward, the garden offers the opportunity to experience the changing seasons. Patients, staff and visitors can use the seating areas to take time out, reflect or simply enjoy the surroundings.
Rebecca Higgott, data quality specialist at Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust and part of the project team, said: “I am incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped make this garden a reality.
“This project has been a true team effort, and it would not have been possible without the dedication, enthusiasm and support of so many people.
“From our garden team and volunteers to our staff, patients, supporters and charity fundraisers, every contribution has played an important part in creating a space that will benefit so many people.
“This garden is much more than a pleasant outdoor area. The garden also supports our growing focus on social prescribing and the wider factors that contribute to health and well-being.
“Not every challenge can be addressed through medication or clinical treatment alone. Opportunities to spend time outdoors, connect with others, take part in meaningful activities and enjoy a sense of purpose can play an important role in recovery and well-being.
“We hope the garden will encourage patients to spend more time outside, helping them to stay active, mobile and engaged during their recovery, while also providing a welcoming space for therapeutic activities, social groups and quiet moments of peace.”
The garden is also visible from the hospital’s main corridor, enhancing the environment for everyone passing through.