People living at Harwood House in Tottington have a garden they can be proud of again thanks to a joint effort from Gateway’s Pathfinder and Bury Floating Support teams and colleagues from Bury Council.
On Wednesday 1 July, the teams rolled up their sleeves to tackle an overgrown garden that had become difficult for people to enjoy. Working alongside those who live at Harwood House, which is a 28-bed independent living scheme, they cleared, tidied and refreshed the space, creating an outdoor area that can be enjoyed throughout the summer and beyond.
People were encouraged to share their ideas and help shape the space, resulting in colourful flower displays and a vegetable-growing area that everyone can enjoy watching develop over the coming months.
Rachel O’Connor, GMBOP Pathfinder Programme Director, joined the day and saw first-hand the impact that working together can have.
She said: “It was fantastic to work alongside participants, Bury Council colleagues and our Pathfinder team to transform this garden space. By working together, we’ve created a welcoming space that the community can enjoy.”
There was plenty happening away from the flower beds too. People took part in a fun ‘Going Green’ quiz, which focused on sustainability and recycling, and sparked lots of laughter and friendly competition along the way.
The teams also held a raffle, raising £32 for a Calico cause, with every contribution helping to support the work taking place across our communities.
Councillor Yvonne Wright joined the event and got stuck into the gardening work alongside those taking part. Her support was greatly appreciated and helped make the day even more special.
What started as an overgrown outdoor space has been transformed into a welcoming garden that people can enjoy together. More importantly, it was a chance for people to connect, share ideas and work towards something positive as a community.
With the garden looking so much brighter, people living at Harwood House will be able to spend more time outside as the weather improves. The space will be used for coffee mornings where people can sit together, enjoy a brew and have a chat in the fresh air. It’s hoped the garden will become a regular meeting place, giving everyone somewhere peaceful to relax while enjoying the flowers, keeping an eye on the vegetables as they grow and making the most of the warmer days.
It’s a great example of what can be achieved when local organisations, communities and partners come together with a shared goal.
