Press Release

Ivan Lewis opens Anchor garden created with DH grant

Wednesday, August 6 2008

Care Services Minister Ivan Lewis has opened a sensory garden at Anchor Homes' Beechfield Lodge in Salford, created with Department of Health funding as a stimulating but peaceful environment for residents.

The Anchor care home was given the £10,000 grant by Salford City Council in 2007 to transform the home’s existing garden into a sensory experience.  The grant was part of the £67.8 million released by the Department of Health for improvements to care home environments.

Many of Beechfield Lodge’s residents have visual impairments. This meant that the bright colours of flowers and other plants in the garden's design had to be complimented by wonderful scents and interesting sounds for all residents to enjoy.

The garden features a small fountain and wind chimes to create a soothing and therapeutic environment for residents. Its design also incorporates plants that attract insects and birds.

Beechfield Lodge’s environment was just one of the areas for which the home received top marks in its CSCI inspection report, published in July, in which it was rated Excellent overall.

The effect of the garden on residents has been remarkable, according to experienced Anchor Home Manager Maggie Thomas: "Spending time in gardens can be very beneficial for everyone; positively affecting emotions and improving our sense of well-being.

"Beechfield Lodge residents absolutely love the new garden.  I have worked in care for many years now and I have never seen a garden be so popular. It looks, sounds and smells wonderful – it really is a feast for the senses."

Care Services Minster Ivan Lewis said: "Distributing this £67.8 million funding to almost 7,000 care homes across England has not only allowed the creation of gardens such as this one, but has done much to improve the lives of tens of thousands of people and their families.

"The funding is part of the wider Dignity in Care campaign, which aims to place dignity and respect at the heart of caring for older people.  Throughout the campaign I have heard how much dignity matters. I know how important it is for people living in care homes to have an environment they are happy in and that they are proud to call home.

"Anchor does a tremendous job. It is so important that organisations such as Anchor are always trying to improve the care and support that they provide and move it on for the future. 

"It is obvious that the reputation for quality of care is tremendous here at Beechfield Lodge and that residents are continuing to have a good quality of life."