5 November 2025
Mental health patients in Hartlepool have been reaping the benefits of a therapeutic garden space they began transforming during occupational therapy sessions.
What started as an allotment plot 18 months ago has blossomed into the Waverley Wellbeing Garden and is a space of peace and harmony filled with vegetables and plants maintained by several of our adult mental health teams.
Managed by our Hartlepool occupational therapy hub team, the garden was renamed by our patients and staff this summer to reflect its growing role in recovery and wellbeing.
Located in Hartlepool Borough Council’s Waverley project site, the garden is more than just a green space.
The facility is also used by partners including volunteers, resettlement groups and children’s services.
With toilet facilities and a classroom for small training sessions, the site supports a range of activities, from occupational therapy assessments to skill-building workshops.
The welcoming space is a great place to meet, share ideas, and develop skills in horticulture, conservation, creativity, and crafts that offer a safe, calming environment.
The space has already had several positive outcomes for our patients.
Darryl Parkinson, occupational therapy assistant
“Many have moved on to volunteering opportunities in the community as well as developing their own garden space at home.”
Family members and carers also play a meaningful role, contributing equipment, transport, and materials, while noticing improvements in their loved ones’ wellbeing.
A recent addition to the site is a poly tunnel, to allow projects and craft activities to continue during poor weather. It will also support the growth of flowers and plants that can be sold to help cover day-to-day costs.
“The garden operates on a zero budget, so we rely on donations of materials and equipment,” said Darryl.
“Our staff and patients have embraced sustainability by recycling discarded materials and reviving neglected plants.
“We also fundraise from selling seasonal hanging baskets that our patients have made.”
Patients are involved in shaping the space, building raised beds, timber arches, and obelisks; others have created composting stations, bug hotels, and even a scarecrow.
All other resources have been generously donated by staff, families, and friends.
“Our future plans include a wildlife pond and a sensory garden, with hopes to form a charitable committee to secure further funding for more materials,” added Darryl.
Produce from the garden is shared among the patients who attend the site, but there are plans to expand this to support food parcels for partner organisations.
