Local company digs deep to makeover garden for dementia patients

Cobalt and local technology company IRESS are continuing to deliver transformational benefits for dementia sufferers through their year-long partnership, announced in March this year.
As its latest project, IRESS has chosen to use Dementia Awareness Week to create an outdoor oasis for dementia patients at the Fritchie Centre run by 2Gether NHS Foundation Trust based in Charlton Lane, Cheltenham. IRESS is also fundraising for Cobalt’s Dementia Futures Fund. The fund aims to improve the way patients are diagnosed and treated for dementia and the charity are currently raising funds to support a research nurse at the Fritchie centre.

The garden makeover will enable dementia patients to get outdoors and enjoy a safe and relaxing environment. The space currently comprises decking and a neglected herb planter. Other local businesses have also rallied round and donated beautiful plants, hard landscaping materials and garden ornaments to support the project.

Emma Mortiboy, Projects and Partnerships Officer, Cobalt said “The fantastic support of these businesses will enable IRESS to transform this outdoor space into a haven for dementia patients”.
The garden has been designed to provide sensory experiences including touch and smell through textured and scented flowers, plants and herbs. The Dementia Futures Fund sets out to raise money to fund dementia research nurses, research trials using specialist equipment, free scans for patients with young onset dementia and a partnership with local hospitals to enhance facilities for patients with dementia and their families.

Jacqueline Durbin, IRESS Foundation representative added “We are delighted to be spending the week transforming this outdoor space for the patients. Getting involved so directly has enabled us to truly appreciate the difference Cobalt’s work to support dementia makes in the community. This garden will enhance the lives of the patients and their families by providing a relaxing environment and respite from the daily challenges they might otherwise experience through their illness”.

For more information on the Dementia Futures Fund go to Dementia Futures Fund or contact the fundraising team on fundraising@cobalthealth.co.uk or call Emma on 01242 535922.