Charnley Folds, environment is light and spacious; it incorporates a garden area and purpose built facilities designed specifically for people with dementia.
Back in June 2018, Age Concern’s information and advice team applied for funding to give the communal garden area a much-needed makeover, work then swiftly began in September 2018 after funding was granted and recently reopened last month.
Karen Wardle, one of the lead volunteers on the project, described the garden before it's refurbishment as “Overgrown, unloved and dark”. In total Karen estimated that over 100 hours had been spent transforming the garden into a now “colourful, warm and welcoming space.” Karen who also worked with other volunteers Iain, Rose and fellow organisation ‘Lets grow Preston’ volunteered to work on the project because she a keen gardener herself and wanted to help create a nice space where people could go when potentially getting a diagnosis of Dementia.
All elements of the garden has been developed and created with people living with dementia in mind. The raised flower beds were purpose built to encourage anyone who likes gardening to water the plants to tidy up the flower beds. There are seating areas outside creating an alternative solution to a clinical area and broad flat paths throughout.
A couple of months after the official opening the garden has been put to good use and is enjoyed by all that visit Charnely Fold. All the plants were donated, furniture upcycled and recycled where possible. If you would like to know more about the garden or are interested in donating any plants please call the team on 01772 620 876.