Residents at local care home, Carrickfergus Manor, which is managed by Kathryn Homes, have been able to make the most of the summer thanks to a new garden makeover.
The garden reflects the hobbies, pastimes, and careers of the residents, with the planning, designing, and planting undertaken by the residents, staff, family members, and volunteers.
Michelle Davies, Wellbeing Lead at Carrickfergus Manor, said:
“The new garden is a beautiful, colourful space for the residents to relax and admire their handiwork.
“I’ve learnt a lot throughout our project, with residents giving me with advice on how to deadhead and properly look after the flowers. Their wisdom has been invaluable!
“Gardening is a great way for our residents to get outside and stay active, and they’ve really enjoyed bonding with one another and each other’s families.”
Aspects of the garden include a Harland and Wolff planter, inspired by one resident that spent his life working in the shipyard, tree scarves that were created by the home’s avid knitters, and cognitive elements such as butterflies and painted rocks.
Hilda, a resident at Carrickfergus Manor, has thoroughly enjoyed working on the garden. They said:
“I love coming out here to sit in the garden and gather my thoughts. I sleep better when I have spent time in the fresh air.”
Businesses in the area supported the project with Everton Day Centre donating planters, mosaics, soils and flowers, members from Team JVC Community Trust assisting with painting fencers and garden furniture, and Kilcreggan Urban Farm Carrickfergus providing advice on the best plants to purchase.
Members of Evolution Boxing Club Carrickfergus volunteered time to help, and Decorators Touch Carrickfergus gifted the home with paint.
Families and friends of the residents also helped complete the garden with monetary donations.
Michelle added:
“We were blown away by the generosity of our brilliant local businesses here in Carrick, so I would like to give a special word of thanks to them for their support in bringing this project to life.”
