The multi-faceted and ambitious project is a culmination of a year-long partnership between the Psychiatry of Old Age Wards within Murray Royal Hospital, Paths for All, landscape architect Marion Preez of Urban Pioneers and a team of designers at Better Company, led by award-winning designer and inclusive design champion Lucy Richards. With inclusive design at the heart of the project, the shared gardens now boast an immersive space which is accessible and integrates a fundamental connection to nature for those living with long-term conditions, such as dementia.

The project has been delivered with a wide range of objectives carefully woven into its design and delivery, including improving the quality of shared greenspace between the Leven ward and Garry and Tummel wards; creating opportunities for patients to participate in meaningful walking and physical activity to improve mobility and time spent being active; and to improve patient and staff wellbeing through opportunities to connect with nature.

Spending time outdoors and being physically active can boost the physical and mental well-being of patients, aid recovery and encourage vital connections to memory. The renovated gardens foster a deeper connection between patients, staff and visiting families and the natural environment. Completed works on planting also support biodiversity and improve air quality, whilst having places to walk and rest creates space for contemplation.

Improvements have included landscaping, the upgrade and installation of new dementia-friendly seating areas, and the installation of Strength and Balance posts to encourage gentle movements in between short walks. Path networks of both gardens were improved, with new sections added to better connect green ‘spaces’ and offer opportunities for social interactions, meaningful activities such as gardening, occupational therapy activities and encourage patients to move more.

With creative input from Kimberly Carpenter, an award-winning freelance designer and illustrator, a series of dementia-friendly interpretation boards guide users around the gardens, offering a deep delve into the natural world.

Clinical and professional team manager, Shelly Milligan from Murray Royal Hospital, said: “Plans for the sensory garden have been specifically designed to provide patients with a relaxing space where they can connect with nature, relax, and take part in activities that will help them improve both their physical and mental well-being.

“We also wanted the area to provide a relaxing space for families and carers to spend quality time with their loved ones.

“On behalf of the Older Peoples Service at Murray Royal Hospital we want to say a huge thank you to Kayleigh, Paths for All, Tayside Health Fund and to the artists and designers involved in this wonderful project.”

The garden will enhance the shared spaces at the Garry and Tummel wards, as well as the garden at the Leven ward.

Kayleigh Lytham, dementia friendly development officer at Paths for All, said: “I’m absolutely thrilled with the outcome of the renovation works and the commitment of those involved in planning and delivering what has been an ambitious and incredibly beneficial project. We were delighted to be given the opportunity to lead the project. The opportunity to collaborate with a host of expert partners has offered a wealth of learning and insight.

“With patient experience and nature connectedness at the centre of the project, this has culminated in shared spaces which offer countless opportunities to reflect, connect and move more in accessible and creative ways. A huge thank you to everyone involved.”

The transformation of the shared gardens creates attractive and serene spaces, natural ambiance and personal experiences centred around moving more to support recovery and facilitate valuable opportunities to enjoy physical activity in accessible and meaningful ways. This project has reflected the fundamental needs and wishes of patients, staff and visitors.