Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity has opened a brand new dementia garden at Crewe's Leighton Hospital, a therapeutic outdoor space created specifically to support the wellbeing of people living with dementia.

The carefully designed garden, located adjacent to the hospital's Care of the Elderly ward, offers a safe and calming environment where patients can benefit from fresh air, sensory stimulation, social interaction and moments of quiet reflection.

One of the key design features is a 'figure of eight' path which flows around flower beds, allowing patients to keep moving without the need to make confusing decisions.

Guests enjoy exploring the new dementia garden at Leighton Hospital (MCHT).

The walking surface has subtle flecks of green, with this often the last colour people living with dementia retain the ability to see, while the main seating area is plain to create a sense of calm and contrast.

The garden is a rich sensory experience throughout the year. Evergreen plants provide structure, while seasonal planting, from spring bulbs to summer herbaceous blooms, autumn foliage and the silver bark of birch trees in winter, offers constant visual interest and a strong sense of time.

Large multi-stemmed Silver Birch trees add height and beauty, with the garden filled with colour and texture from carefully chosen pots and sensory herbs, labelled to stimulate memory and conversation.

As well as a spacious seating area for group activities, the garden includes more secluded seating areas to allow for quiet reflection and privacy.

Cleverly designed screening ensures the garden feels open and inviting, while also remaining safe and secure, with no visible gate to discourage wandering.

The walking surface has subtle flecks of green, with this often the last colour people living with dementia retain the ability to see, while the main seating area is plain to create a sense of calm and contrast (MCHT).

This special project has been years in the making, driven by the dedication of Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity and made possible by the generosity of community fundraisers.

Head of Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity, Emma Robertson, told Nub News: "This is a garden I have dreamed of for years, and seeing it finally brought to life is incredibly special.

"We are so grateful to all of our generous community and staff fundraisers who have made it possible.

"It has been wonderful to have one of our long-time supporters, Tim Ashcroft, join us for today's launch. He has fundraised tirelessly for the dementia appeal for the past eight years."

Plants have been designed to be touched and smelt to offer a sensory experience for dementia patients (MCHT).

The official opening was held on Tuesday 17 June, giving guests the chance to explore the garden, meet with staff and patients, and celebrate a meaningful improvement in care for those living with dementia at Leighton Hospital.

If you would like to contribute to the upkeep and maintenance of this special garden, you can donate to the charity HERE.

READ MORE: Cheshire East unveils upgrade plans for two more Crewe 'Pocket Parks.'

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