St George's Bloomed This Spring - A celebration of nature and healing
19 July 2023
This was possible thanks to the tireless efforts of John Greco, the head gardener, and his team and the support of St George's Hospital Charity.
In the previous year, John Greco recognised the potential of the hospital's gardens in contributing to patient wellbeing and recovery. With this vision in mind, he applied for and successfully secured a grant from St George's Hospital Charity, enabling him and his dedicated team to breathe new life into the hospital's green spaces in preparation for the summer season.
Understanding the profound connection between a patient's environment and their healing journey, John set to work on upgrading and updating the gardens with a range of thoughtful enhancements. Among the improvements were the addition of new bird and insect homes, a butterfly tower, and refreshed Rose Centre Garden, offering tranquil sanctuaries for patients and visitors.
Additionally, several smaller and more secluded gardens and spaces within the hospital grounds were rejuvenated. These hidden gems provide peaceful hideaways for contemplation, relaxation, and moments of respite for both patients and staff. The result of John's team's efforts is nothing short of breath taking – a testament to the transformative power of nature on the healing process.
One of the most captivating displays brought to life by the grant was the vibrant array of tulip bulbs and spring flowers. As the flowers bloomed, the grounds burst into a symphony of colours, heralding the arrival of spring with a flourish. Visitors to the hospital marvelled at the picturesque sight, as the gardens served as a testament to hope, renewal, and the promise of brighter days ahead.
St George's Hospital Charity takes great pride in standing alongside St George's and Queen Mary's Hospitals, dedicated to serving the communities they support. The Charity's mission is to elevate patient experiences, support staff development and welfare, advance research and transformation, improve infrastructure and medical equipment, and enhance the overall well-being of all connected to St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
The grants provided by the Charity go above and beyond routine NHS funding, allowing exceptional care and initiatives to thrive. These grants support a wide range of areas, from patient and family experience to staff welfare, research, capital projects, infrastructure, community welfare, and essential medical equipment.
If you are a staff member at the Trust with an idea or project that can bring positive change and enhance the lives of patients and the community, you can apply for a grant here. By investing in such initiatives, we can collectively nurture a healing environment where patients find comfort, families find support, and staff find pride in their workplace.
As the gardens of St George's continue to bloom and flourish, let us celebrate the power of nature in healing and the unwavering commitment of St George's Hospital Charity to make a difference in the lives of those it serves. Together, we can create a haven of hope and renewal, ensuring that the healing journey extends far beyond hospital walls and into the hearts of all those touched by its grace.
