A new garden designed specifically to support patients in the stroke unit at Perth Royal Infirmary has officially opened.
The renovated garden space was designed in partnership with patients, staff and families, to provide a space of rehabilitation, relaxation and recovery, with a number of seating areas and a new glass balustrade giving a view over the city.
Perth Royal Infirmary Stroke Unit Senior Charge Nurse Paul Cunningham said, “The garden has been designed with patients in mind. As well as a space for rehabilitation, it is a place for relaxation to aid recovery.
“Stroke patients can be in the ward for a period of time, so having the new garden allows patients to enjoy fresh air and helps with mental wellbeing. It gives patients a change of scenery from the ward.
“The garden is popular, especially when relatives visit. It has had a really positive reception and we are very grateful to all those who have donated money and supported the project. It will benefit patients and their families now and long into the future.”
Special features have been installed to assist with patient rehabilitation, including raised flower beds that can be used by the occupational therapists to work with patients as well as ramps and steps, allowing physiotherapists to carry out outdoor therapy and assessments.
Perth and Kinross Health and Social Care Partnership Head of Health Evelyn Devine and NHS Tayside Nurse Director for Community and Health and Social Care Partnerships Sarah Dickie joined stroke unit staff, patients and visitors for a celebration event to mark the official opening of the garden last week.
The renovation of the garden was completed following Tayside Health Fund charitable donations, including kind donations from former patients and family members, with garden designer Inglis Thorburn and landscaper Ian Marsden supporting the project.
