Lawnwood House in Dudley, West Midlands is a home for the elderly with which TCV has been working since 1989. The home’s manager approached TCV for advice about improving the plot of land around the home, which was simply mown grass, with poor access from the building, and little inducement for residents to go outside. Through discussion with staff, residents and visitors, and with advice from the local access officer and ideas from local school children, a plan was drawn up.
Local funding was obtained to build paths, raised beds and a terrace. Local volunteers created a pond, positioned within view of the terrace. Local schools and community groups planted hundreds of plants and bulbs. An occupational therapist has helped some of the residents to become involved in gardening activities.
The involvement of local children was a great joy to the residents, and created a link between the local primary school and the home. This link has been sustained by further projects, including the designing and making of decorative tiles to brighten the entrance to the home.
