During 2011, Thrive will be transforming their old walled fruit garden at Trunkwell, into a Garden Gallery of five small gardens designed to suit the needs of specific disabilities.
Hearts and minds garden will be aimed at people recovering from a stroke or heart attack. Using a design which encourages gentle exercise to recover health, strength, stamina and co-ordination.
Just for fun garden will be a colourful space for 14-19 year olds with special educational needs.
Out of sight garden is intended for people with sight loss. Plants will be chosen for scent, sound and texture whilst access will be level with wide paths.
The journey will be an uplifting garden for people with a mental illness including dementia. This garden will inspire activity and creativity to reduce feelings of depression and anxiety to promote a feeling of accomplishment and direction.
The Unexpected Gardener garden is already at Thrive and was awarded a Gold Medal at the RHS Chelsea Garden in 2007. This small urban garden designed by Jo Thompson shows how age or disability need not mean an end to gardening or a compromise to good design.
Louise Venter, who consulted as head gardener to the Berkshire College of Agriculture; Vanessa Adorni, who’s L’Esprit Jardin for sponsors Grand Marnier, at the RHS Hampton Court Show in July 2007 was awarded an RHS Silver Gilt medal and David Neale, who one half of the garden design, construction and plant specialist, Neale Richards Ltd,