New Rehabilitation Garden Opens at Chapel Allerton Hospital

Outdoor space aims to support patients with complex rehabilitation needs

A newly developed rehabilitation garden has officially opened at Chapel Allerton Hospital, offering patients living with complex rehabilitation needs an outdoor environment to aid their recovery. The opening was marked by a celebration attended by hospital staff, current and former patients, and their families.

Funding and development

The garden was created with the support of Leeds Hospitals Charity, which secured a £200,000 grant from NHS Charities Together. This funding was part of the Greener Communities Fund, a partnership initiative involving the environmental charity Hubbub and Starbucks. Prior to this investment, the hospital’s outdoor courtyard had not been updated since 1994 and was deemed unsuitable for patient use, limiting opportunities for patients and their families to spend time outside the ward.

Purpose and benefits

The clinical team at Chapel Allerton Hospital identified a need for improved outdoor facilities to support patients who have experienced life-changing illnesses. Many of these patients face emotional stress and difficulties with daily tasks as part of their rehabilitation journey.

Harriet Garnett, an Occupational Therapist at the hospital, highlighted the importance of the garden in helping patients regain skills and improve well-being. The space provides a therapeutic environment where patients can practise everyday activities in a natural setting, which is considered beneficial for both physical and mental health.

Features of the garden

• Accessible outdoor courtyard designed to meet the needs of patients with complex rehabilitation requirements
• Areas for relaxation and social interaction for patients and their families
• Modernised facilities to replace the outdated space last refurbished in 1994

The rehabilitation garden represents a step towards enhancing patient care beyond traditional clinical settings by incorporating natural environments into recovery programmes.

For more information, visit the Leeds Hospitals Charity website.