Charity launches appeal to raise £100,000 for new therapeutic gardens at Prince Philip Hospital

HYWEL Dda Health Charities, the official charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board, has launched a new appeal to raise £100,000 to fund new therapeutic gardens at Prince Philip Hospital, Llanelli.

Supported by international rugby union referee Nigel Owens, the Prince Philip Hospital Gardens Appeal aims to raise the funds needed to create two new gardens for older patients, their families and staff at Mynydd Mawr and Bryngolau wards.

Mynydd Mawr ward is an elderly care rehabilitation unit; Bryngolau ward is an older adult mental health unit.

Nigel said: “I know as well as anyone how important it is for both your physical and mental health to get outside into the fresh air.

“Unfortunately, the outdoor space between Mynydd Mawr and Bryngolau wards is currently not suitable for patients.

“We’re asking the local community to help us provide some of the frailest patients in Prince Philip Hospital with new green spaces which will give their wellbeing a real boost.”

Clare, a patient at Mynydd Mawr, said: “I miss going out. It makes you feel wonderful to go outside. Just to sit in a garden would be lovely.”

Luke Bennett, Charge Nurse at Bryngolau, said: “The new gardens will support recovery by providing safe, joyful and healing spaces where our older patients can enjoy fresh air, exercise and feel close to nature.

“The gardens will also provide a restful environment for staff and families. It will really transform what it’s like to be on the wards.”

The Appeal is being managed by Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board. Claire Rumble, Fundraising Officer at the charity, said: “We are calling on our fantastic local communities to donate or fundraise so that we can create really special spaces which will have meaning and significance for all who use them.

“Even a small donation will make a big difference!”

For more information on how to support the campaign, please visit: https://hywelddahealthcharities.nhs.wales/campaigns/pph-gardens-appeal/, email: fundraising.hyweldda@wales.nhs.uk, or call: 01267 239815. Supporters can also donate £5 directly to the campaign by texting GARDENS to 70560 or can donate another amount by adding the relevant number after GARDENS – e.g. text GARDENS 10 to donate £10.