Two features that stood out for Raf were the sensory path and the greenhouse made out of plastic bottles. Wishing to recognise these innovative features Raf asked the patient to write down what had inspired her to create these, here is what she says:
“I first started being interested in and concerned about environmental issues when I learnt as a youngster about CFCs and the damage they were doing to the ozone layer during the 1980s. When I arrived here at Alders, I was disappointed at the lack of recycling facilities for both staff and patients.”
“One of the nurses, who was a good mentor to me, mentioned that she had built a plastic bottle greenhouse at a previous hospital she had worked in. I looked it up online, and found some instructions for a greenhouse. It took approximately a year to collect all the bottles, and 3x one hour sessions to assemble the frame and bottles. I didn’t count the exact number of bottles.”
“Currently, it is being used for young plants and newly sown seeds that will need protection from frost and snow when the weather gets colder. The finished greenhouse will not be as watertight or as warm as a glass one, but will still help with growth of fruit and veg as well as ornamentals. This can be a motivation for some patients who can then eat what they have grown -with a minimal carbon footprint!”
“The greenhouse was coproduced from start to finish and reminded me of the creative projects that can be produced when people come together. I think every service should follow in the steps of Cygnet Alders Clinic and coproduce something with a meaning.”Raf Hamaizia, Expert by Experience Lead
“When I came to Alders, I began with just gentle weeding in the Therapy Garden here. I can’t exactly remember how the idea of creating the Sensory Path within this garden came about. However, I was keen to try it.”
“Approximately 6 months after I came here I was able to begin creating it from the blank canvas this garden provided. With a combination of both hard and soft landscaping, I hope I have created something which touches all five senses and which I hope can provide some benefit for others here.”
“Like any garden, it is an ongoing project, and will never be completely finished as it is a living thing. Things are starting to mature now which is great to see. The thought that it may also provide help for others is also a great motivating factor. I am looking forward to planning and carrying out further modifications during next year’s growing season.”
“Being involved in such a project may encourage people who might not otherwise go outdoors to get some fresh air, and to see and experience what is in the garden. It is well known that being in nature can improve mental health.”