New Garden Space Aims to Allevate Social Isolation

A fresh outdoor space is set to launch with the specific goal of enhancing resident wellbeing and reducing social isolation. The public will be invited to officially open the new garden at Yarm Wellness, located at the junction of West Street and High Church Wynd, at 13:30 BST this Saturday.

Linda Fisher, a 68-year-old volunteer, first encountered the hub two years prior while struggling with social isolation. She described the upcoming garden as a potential "ice-breaker" for passersby. Currently under development, the community garden features three distinct zones, including raised plant beds designed with disabled access, flower beds, and seating benches.

During the Covid-19 lockdown, Fisher balanced long hours working in healthcare with caring for her family. However, upon retirement, she found herself without a social circle. Despite making five attempts to contact the charity, low confidence initially hindered her efforts. Once she was finally invited to the hub, she noted that it fundamentally changed her life.

Now a volunteer, Fisher said she has formed new friendships and is no longer "feeling alone." "I've got my group of friends now and an amazing community in Yarm who I mostly met through the Wellness centre," she explained. She added, "[The garden] is going to be transformational. I'm looking forward to growing things, it's good for your mental health."

The centre currently offers a weekly schedule that includes drop-in cafés, peer support groups, creative and musical sessions, and wellbeing classes. The new outdoor area, constructed on adjacent arches secured from Network Rail, will broaden the centre’s offerings. Future additions include the Wellness Shed project, a sensory garden with raised beds, and a dedicated space for outdoor yoga and mindfulness.

Richard Barker, 82, who leads the centre’s Creative Art for Wellness sessions, also emphasized the facility's impact. After his wife passed away 13 years ago and his children moved away for work, he described the centre as a "lifeline."

"It gave me a purpose in life to actually get out and do things," said the former electrical engineer. Regarding the new garden, he added, "I can't wait to sit outside, I would love to see the plants growing."

Source: BBC News Generated at: 2026-04-16 05:07:31 UTC