A hospital memorial garden is set for a transformation complete with a new wildflower meadow created thanks to a £10,000 grant.

The funding from Natural England was secured by Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust’s charity Well Wishers for Walsall Manor Hospital.

Volunteers recruited from the staff and the volunteer team will work alongside Groundwork West Midlands to enhance an internal courtyard at the hospital to create a peaceful and nature-filled space for staff to take time to reflect and remember family, friends and colleagues they have lost.

The project will also improve biodiversity with wildflower planting in a yet to be created grass meadow near the Urgent and Emergency Care Centre.

Jane Longden, Divisional Director Estates and Facilities at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust, said: “Thanks to the hard work of Well Wishers we have managed to secure funding from Natural England to re-energise the courtyard area which staff have used as a memorial garden.

“The project also highlights the Trust’s commitment to improving biodiversity. The addition of wildflowers will create habitats for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, contributing to the local ecosystem while enhancing the natural beauty of the hospital grounds.

“Overall, it will be providing spaces that support both personal wellbeing and environmental sustainability.”

Staff volunteers are now being sought to help shape the garden — from ripping out old plants and vegetation to building raised beds, creating the willow arbour, assembling garden furniture, and planting the new greenery.

The drop-in sessions for staff to get involved will be every Wednesday from 10am until 3pm.

Melissa Underwood, Land and Environment Manager for Groundwork West Midlands who will be leading the project, said: “I am really looking forward to meeting volunteers who wish to support.

Volunteers can contribute as much or as little time as they wish. They’re welcome to attend a single session or join us regularly.

“This hands-on involvement offers a chance for staff to connect with nature, which research shows can reduce stress and promote a sense of calm, especially in busy work environments.

“The brew station will also be out for anyone fancying a warm drink and biscuit as a thank you.”

Georgie Westley, Fundraising Manager at Walsall Healthcare, said: “We were so pleased to secure this funding to transform the space for our staff, patients and volunteers. I am looking forward to seeing the end result.”

Amber Marquand, Health & Wellbeing Higher Officer at Natural England, said: “This is a brilliant opportunity to bring the benefits of nature to Walsall Manor Hospital and its entire community.

“We know, for example, that connecting to nature can reduce anxiety and boost general wellbeing and even aid faster recovery from illness and surgery.

“We hope this project will provide a great long-lasting asset for staff, patients, visitors and nature.”

Potential volunteers who already support Walsall Healthcare or staff who want to contribute ideas to the garden project are asked to email Melissa.Underwood@groundwork.org.uk