Oasis of tranquillity created to help people with mental health needs

The Goldcrest Ward gardens at Swallownest Court mental health unit has been transformed by patient Tony over the past few months.

The Job Well Done initiative was launched by health trust Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH) last year to help patients discover new or past skills and interests, encouraging them to build the confidence and experience to develop wider links into the community, find employment or enter voluntary work.

RDaSH senior occupational therapist Beth Sidaway said: “Tony is a fantastic example of how our project works.

“He told us he was missing his garden at home, so we've provided him with the right support and access to tools and equipment in a safe, supportive environment where he can flourish.

“He’s devoted his time, whatever the weather, to lovingly restoring our gardens into bloom and we’re extremely proud of everything he's achieved. 

“We’d like to say a big thank you to him for making our outside space such a therapeutic and relaxing place for our patients and staff.”