A newly developed garden at Over Day Centre is proving to be a cherished space for clients, families, and staff, following its official opening.
The garden offers therapeutic benefits, encourages outdoor activity, relaxation, and social interaction while providing a simple way to enjoy being in nature.
The project was made possible through funding from charities as well as a grant from our Community Growing grant.
Funding also came from several UK trusts and foundations and through fundraising activities by Over Day Centre.
The outdoor area was unveiled during a celebratory garden party, bringing together the local community to mark the transformation which features raised beds designed for wheelchair accessibility, a small greenhouse, a shed, and peaceful seating areas.
Cllr Henry Batchelor, Lead Cabinet Member for Communities for South Cambridgeshire District Council, said: "We’re proud to support Over Day Centre in creating a garden that not only enhances the wellbeing of its clients but also strengthens community ties. It’s a great example of how small-scale investments in green spaces can deliver lasting benefits for health, wellbeing, and community spirit.”
Over Day Centre clients were actively involved in choosing and cultivating plants, vegetables and herbs, with salad crops already harvested and tomatoes and carrots soon to follow.
The garden project cost £18,200 and is maintained by a dedicated team of trustees, staff, volunteers, and clients, ensuring it remains a vibrant and welcoming space for all. Updates on available produce are shared via the Centre’s Facebook page, inviting the local community to benefit from the garden’s grown goodies.
David Barker, Chair of Trustees at Over Day Centre, said: “The new garden area was achieved with the support of South Cambridgeshire District Council, NGU Construction, and our trustees who purchased plants, sourced and refreshed a shed and prepared the garden. It's been great to see the enthusiasm of our clients in maintaining the garden and enjoying the fantastic new space we’ve created. Our hopes are that any surplus vegetables not used in our kitchens will be shared with our clients and their families, with cut flowers from the garden used to brighten our Day Centre, Memory Café, and Lunch Club. Our garden has already brought so much joy. It’s more than just a place to grow food - it’s a space for clients, families, carers and our staff to connect , unwind and benefit from being outside. We’re deeply grateful for the support that’s made this possible."
Cllr Bill Handley, district councillor for Over, said: “For over 35 years, Over Day Centre has offered a safe and friendly environment for elderly residents to meet and socialise. This new garden is a wonderful addition to the facilities they offer and will provide an interesting environment and relaxed space for clients to enjoy. A keen gardener and allotment-holder myself I know, first-hand, how a garden can help an individual both physically and mentally. I am very proud that SCDC continues to provide grants to help community groups like Over Day Centre to improve the services they offer.”
Cllr Dan Lentell, district councillor for Over, said: “Over Day Centre is beyond important for so many people in our community. This new garden will be a paradise for service users and community members.”
- As part of the Council’s Cost of Living Support programme, the Community Growing Grants scheme was launched to support projects in setting up community vegetable or herb growing schemes. Eligible expenses that qualify for grants of up to £500 include items such as raised beds, gardening tools, soil, and seeds. Find out more here.
