Gardening project helping people to stay well

A gardening project is helping patients with balance and mobility issues stay well longer.

The Stow Lodge-based group works with people that have had falls and strokes.

It also helps patients living with other medical issues and includes a 91-year-old.

The project was launched by the Stowmarket Integrated Neighbourhood Team (INT). Patients go there after referral to the community therapy team .

The gardening group offers a meaningful activity to improve their physical ability. In bad weather, gentle gym session promoting interaction with others, take place.

Once a patient has met their goals, they can join other local groups such as Red Gables Garden Project and Stowmarket Men’s Shed.

Jean Norton, Rosemary Webb and Carol Johnson tend to some plants on some decking.

INT care coordinator, Clair Brady, said: “The project’s primary focus is prevention. Supporting people to remain well and independent at home. Addressing problems before they result in a hospital admission.

“All members have experienced a fall, had a stroke, or been referred after leaving hospital. With one exception, patients joining the project have not suffered any further falls.

“Some people were unsure what they would gain, but many have been surprised by their progress.

“The gardening project is a therapeutic activity. It aims to improve strength, balance, and wellbeing in a meaningful and enjoyable way.

“Now that some of the group members have met their goals, they can link in with other community groups.

It has been really positive to link in with other groups who have supported our project and helped make our first year a success.

“It is incredibly rewarding to see patients make real improvements. They are being helped to move forward rather than becoming isolated at home.

“Members have developed a real sense of connection and community with one another.

Work on the garden began in January 2025 and the first summer saw a bumper crop of fruit and vegetables grow.

The garden is set to flourish further with various trees and shrubs to be planted. There will also be the introduction of various beds, decking and potting sheds.

Since her rehabilitation, Maureen Banyard (88) from Needham Market has become a volunteer there.

She said: “It means a lot to me. I get down easy and if I didn’t have this to come to, I would get depressed.

“After my stroke I was asked what I would like to do to keep active.

Phillip Barnes fixes a birdbox to a fence.

“I didn’t think gardening would be possible as I can’t get down on the floor, but I use a chair to lean on.

“I just wanted to be at home before I found the gardening club. I felt safe there after my stroke – but I really love gardening and meeting other people.”

Phillip Barnes will join Maureen as a volunteer. He has found a niche making wooden bird feeders and bug hotels.

Phillip, said: “If I wasn’t coming here, I wouldn’t have much contact with anybody else. I can go out with my wife as I can drive a car, but I am not able to walk around my village easily.”

Assistant practitioner, Marcella Tweed, said: “People don’t want the group to end when they have reached their goals.

“They are interacting with each other, although not directly looking at someone. In that sense they probably open up more as a result and feel more relaxed.”

The project is an example of collaborative working between ESNEFT and Suffolk County Council.

Councillor Beccy Hopfensperger, Suffolk County Council Cabinet Member for Adult Care, said: “This is a wonderful project, showing the strength of integrated health and social care, with therapy teams from ESNEFT working alongside care coordinators from adult social care.

“By bringing teams and communities together in one supportive space, we’re helping people build confidence, regain independence, and reconnect with the things that bring them joy.

“It’s a great example of how small, local initiatives can make a big difference to people’s lives. I want to thank everyone involved.”