The Armed Forces Garden is located in Hillfield Park and was developed to benefit veterans and their family members, local schools and other members of the community.
The garden provides a peaceful sanctuary for remembrance and reflection as well as a place to help people overcome isolation, acting as a welcoming place to meet up and interact with others.
The concept behind the garden was one of ‘healing habitats’. It is an eco-therapy project which comprises a series of therapeutic natural habitats for people to explore. These habitats aim to improve bio-diversity and provide opportunities to improve and maintain the wellbeing of the armed forces community through nature-based activities.
The garden is divided into three zones, with each area having its own feel and purpose:
- a community wildlife garden, providing a valuable meeting place for people.
- a summer meadow and community orchard.
- a newly planted community woodland which follows the Royal British Legion’s ‘Battle Back’ principles to create opportunities for active recovery.
This project has been supported by the Royal British Legion, local veterans and serving personnel, army medical teams and local community groups.
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