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Patients and their families are set to benefit from a newly refurbished garden space within Critical Care Unit at Hinchingbrooke Hospital, following a community effort to transform the outdoor area.

The project was led by the team with support from Jade Sumbilla, Sister in the Critical Care Centre. Jade's dad died on the unit, and she knew how much he had valued spending time outdoors which inspired them all to create a space that everyone could enjoy. The garden has been redesigned as a peaceful and welcoming place where patients and relatives can sit together, talk or simply enjoy a quiet moment.

Being able to spend time outside can make a huge difference to a patient's wellbeing, helping them feel calmer, more connected and providing a welcome change of environment.

The Mayor of Huntingdon, Councillor Patrick Kadewere, officially opened the garden during a special ceremony attended by families, hospital staff and supporters who had contributed to the project.

The garden transformation was completed in five months and was made possible thanks to the generosity of local residents, businesses and community groups, who donated plants, flowers and materials to help bring the space to life. A colourful mural, created and gifted by local contractors, has become a striking centrepiece of the garden, helping to create a bright and uplifting environment for everyone who uses the space. 

Jade Sumbilla, said: “Critical Care is a place in hospital that nobody ever expects to find themselves in. For our patients and their families, it can be an incredibly frightening, overwhelming and emotional time, when you're sitting beside someone you love, who is ill, the world can feel very small and sometimes you just need to step away from the environment and have a moment to breathe. That's what this garden is for.”

“This garden has been a real labour of love, and it simply wouldn't have happened without the generosity and kindness of so many people. I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who donated, planted, built and designed this project, you've helped us to create something really special.” she added. 

Staff hope the garden will become a valued part of the unit, offering a quiet retreat that supports both physical and emotional wellbeing while enhancing the experience of patients and visitors.