NGH Estates Maintenance Supervisor Simon Messinger cut the ribbon to declare the Reflective Garden Open.
Joined by Michelle Leighton from the charity, Tracey Robson and Louise Taylor from HR.
It was a real pleasure to be able to hold an official opening of the Reflective Garden at Northampton General Hospital (NGH) on the afternoon of Friday 4th June.
With the restrictions in place, it had to be a small affair of course but it was important the moment could be properly marked.
Estates Maintenance Supervisor at NGH, Simon Messinger kindly cut the ribbon, thanking Northamptonshire Health Charity for the funding and declaring this stunning outside space, open.
The charity is hugely grateful to Simon who was behind the whole project from the start and instrumental in getting it all completed to such a high standard.
Working throughout the coronavirus pandemic has been really tough for all NHS staff but it is great to see and hear how people have already been enjoying the space to take some time away during breaks from their busy shifts.
The outside space has an array of beautiful plants, wonderful seating areas and tables, as well as many bird and insect houses to encourage some of the local wildlife to pay a visit.
Naturally, there are still restrictions in place at our hospitals meaning that not too many people can gather together at once but the space is now open for staff to enjoy this oasis of peace, calm and reflection in a safe way.
When the weather is right it’s a really nice peaceful place to take a lunch break.
It provides a really great tool as part of supporting our NHS staff’s wellbeing.
We couldn’t have funded this garden without the generous support from the wonderful Northamptonshire community for our COVID19 appeal, including local company Church’s who raised over £5,000 with their virtual walk around the world, or without the support from Barclays UK and NHS Charities Together – our thanks to everyone who has made this possible!