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CUH Arts, Darwin Nurseries and the CUH Sustainability team invite you to take part in a creative engagement project, focusing on initiating a community garden that is being scoped for development at Addenbrookes.

This first stage of the project will be running for two weeks and you can attend as many or as few of the sessions as you like – join us for the whole series or just for one.

From 14-30 May, you are invited to creatively engage and share your ideas with us through visits to local gardens, creative workshops and through rich discussions about plants, vegetables and the healing qualities of gardening. Travel expenses can be reimbursed, and all materials, refreshments and snacks are included.

This project will be facilitated by Sandie Cain, Therapeutic Horticulturalist and Team Manager at Darwin Nurseries, and writer Hannah Jane Walker. The project is open to both staff and patients. Your engagement will help build momentum and buy-in for a community garden and support future funding for this initiative.

Nature and Wellbeing

Greenery, gardens and wildlife help improve the quality of the air we breathe, reduce noise pollution and boost people’s physical and mental health.

CUH's Green Plan
Lavender in outside seating area Session 1

Tuesday 14th May, 5.15-6.45pm: Introduction, Addenbrooke's

Meet Sandie and Hannah, carry out site assessments of the proposed site and discuss what kind of space could be most inspiring for staff and patients.

Blossom in Bloom Session 2

Thursday 16th May, 10-11.30am: Clay Farm Community Garden

What does it take to sustain a community garden? Pick up some tips from local community gardeners creating inspiring spaces.

blossom Session 3

Monday 20th May, 10.30am-12pm: Rock Road Community Garden

How do you create a green sanctuary when you have limited space? Learn from local community gardeners who have done just that!

Yellow flowers Session 4

Tuesday 21st May, 2-4.30pm: Cambridge University Botanic Garden

Develop your understanding of plants and take inspiration from the beautiful gardens. Tea, coffee and cake provided.

Grass field in sunlight Session 5

Saturday 25th May, 10am-12pm: Creative Workshop, Darwin Nurseries

Create mood-boards and consider what plant-life could really thrive in the Addenbrooke’s community garden. Tea, coffee and cake provided.

Grape Hyacinths at Addenbrooke's Session 6

Thursday 30th May, 5.15-6.45pm: Project Conclusion, Addenbrooke's

Begin to think through concept designs for the proposed community space. Create sketches, notes and designs with support from Sandie Cain.