A GARDEN of remembrance to provide a peaceful space to remember people from the district who have lost their lives due to Covid-19 has been created.

The garden, made by staff at Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust, is located in the courtyard space at Lynfield Mount Hospital’s Dementia Assessment Unit.

In a poignant nod to the symbol of hope used throughout the pandemic, the garden is filled with colours of the rainbow. 

Occupational therapist Jane Bridges led the project and said: “It’s been a big team effort which we started in February. We thought it would be a fitting tribute to provide a place of reflection and calm in memory of those we have sadly lost.

“The area is a secure outdoor area which now provides the patients on our unit with a peaceful sensory experience which can really complement their care.”

With support from the Trust Charity, the Estates team got to work digging out old trees, shrubs and weeds to plant numerous bulbs and flowers, which, when in flower, are in the colours of the rainbow.

Mark Hudson, Estates Officer at the Trust, said “Jane approached us with her idea for the rainbow garden and through leading with her drive and ambition the courtyard has been turned into a beautiful space that is a credit to her and the team.”

Anne Marie Black, whose father was cared for on the Dementia Assessment Unit prior to him passing away in April 2020, due a combination of health issues and Covid-19, welcomed the garden.

Anne Marie said: “My father had dementia for a long time, but this period of his care was the most positive due to the approach of the Dementia Assessment Unit.

“We have fond memories of his time with the Trust and being able to go to a garden will be a great place for us to reflect.”

The unit is hoping to hold a formal opening event later this summer.

 

 

 

 

 

Anne Marie Black, whose father was cared for on the unit prior to him passing away in April 2020, due a combination of health issues and Covid-19, welcomed the the garden. She said: “We have fond memories of his time with the Trust and being able to go to a garden will be a great place for us to reflect.”
It’s hoped a formal opening event will be held later this year.