New Therapeutic Garden at The Willows Unveiled

Nugent are delighted to unveil it’s latest Therapeutic Garden at our children’s service, The Willows, thanks to long-term Nugent supporter Clare Ellis, who completed a gruelling 100km trek across the Sahara Desert in November 2023.  

The Garden, now a therapeutic safe-space, serves as a sanctuary for vulnerable, traumatised, and disadvantaged children aged 13 to 18, offering them a place of healing and growth. 

Clare, who runs Wellness in the City, an organisation focused on mental health and well-being, embarked on the challenging trek with a mission to create a lasting impact on the lives of the young people at The Willows. Her efforts made possible the development of a tranquil, therapeutic garden that has since become a vital part of the children’s daily lives. 

The Willows’ front garden has been meticulously designed to offer a peaceful retreat, where flowers provide a soothing atmosphere and nature is encouraged to flourish. Upcycled church pews, now adorned with blooming flowers, add a unique touch to the space. One young person has taken on the responsibility of ensuring these flowers are watered daily, finding a sense of purpose and connection in the process. 

The garden also features a greenhouse where vegetables are being cultivated, with plans to teach the young people about the origins of their food. This initiative aims to deepen their understanding of nature and nutrition, fostering a sense of empowerment and self-sufficiency. 

Reflecting on her journey, Clare shared, “The trek was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but knowing that every step was bringing us closer to creating this garden kept me going. Seeing the children engage with the space, whether it’s watering the flowers or learning about where their food comes from, makes it all worthwhile.” 

The funds Clare raised covered the costs of creating this therapeutic garden, which includes sensory plants, seating areas, and spaces for reflection and therapy sessions. Nugent’s Children’s Service, The Willows, expressed deep gratitude for Clare’s dedication and the community support that brought this project to life. 

“The Therapeutic Garden has become a transformative space for our young people,” said a spokesperson for The Willows. “We are incredibly thankful to Clare and everyone who supported her trek. This garden is now a place of healing and hope for our children.” 

Clare’s successful fundraising campaign and the completion of her trek in November 2023 stand as a testament to her unwavering commitment to the well-being of young people. Clare’s own business, Wellness In The City, aligns perfectly with her fundraising efforts for The Willows therapy garden, as both aim to improve well-being through greater access to holistic treatments. Wellness In The City promotes mindfulness and self-care, encouraging people to prioritise their health, which complements The Willows’ mission of providing a healing space for the young people in it’s care. 

Her journey across the Sahara not only raised the necessary funds but also heightened awareness about the importance of providing safe and supportive environments for children across Merseyside. 

The Therapeutic Garden at The Willows is already making a positive impact. It is thanks to Clare Ellis and our other Nugent supporters, that we can continue to inspire and support initiatives that champion vulnerable individuals and families across the region of Merseyside.