Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Trust
Location
The garden of the Pendered Centre, which provides inpatient services for adults experiencing acute mental health problems
Aims and outcomes
The aim of the project was to create an outside space where patients could spend time away from the ward, and also interact with arts events. The team chose to develop an arts garden, featuring spaces for rest and contemplation and a covered seating area, plus a stage area for exhibitions, events and live performances.
Sensory planting and natural materials are used in the garden, with local artists contributing wood carvings and other artworks. To help forge strong links between the community and hospital, events in the arts garden will be open to members of the local communiuty as well as to service users and staff.
The project has had a significant effect on planning for the trusts' new private finance initiative unit, where a performance space will form the central hub.
