A new therapy garden aimed at supporting the mental health of young adults and individuals with learning difficulties has been inaugurated in Epsom, Surrey. The garden occupies a former cricket ground and pavilion and is a collaboration between Surrey County Council and Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.
Local businesses, charities, and volunteers contributed to building the garden, with design assistance from Natural England and Surrey Wildlife Trust. Therapy sessions will be conducted in the garden, offering participants opportunities to relax, rejuvenate, and connect with nature.
Ruth Leaver-Lewis, senior art therapist at the trust, highlighted the therapeutic aspects of the garden, noting that visitors can engage in mindfulness activities such as feeling the breeze, listening to birdsong, and enjoying the scents of flowers and plants. Sessions also include participation from families and carers, fostering relationship-building and emotional processing.
Mark Nuti, Surrey County Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, expressed enthusiasm for the garden’s opening, emphasizing its role in providing an inclusive and supportive environment. He believes the garden will positively impact mental wellbeing in Surrey by offering a safe and welcoming space for all individuals, especially those who may face challenges accessing traditional services.
