Sundial Care Home, located near Sidmouth, is marking the start of spring in its gardening club, where family members (residents) are already seeing the fruits of their labour. Hydrangea cuttings taken last year have rooted well, sweet peas have germinated, and recently the group have begun sowing tomatoes, beans, and a selection of flowers using seeds collected from the Exeter Seed Swap.
Once the seedlings are strong enough, they’re transferred to the home’s greenhouse and garden areas, contributing to the wider space that’s enjoyed by both family members and local wildlife throughout the year.
The gardening club provides a calm, supportive space for family members to enjoy meaningful activity. It’s a familiar routine that supports mobility, encourages independence and decision-making, and brings a shared sense of purpose, mirroring life at home.
Sue and Terry, whose loved one once lived at Sundial, now volunteer regularly and continue to be part of the Sundial family. As part of their annual Boxing Day family raffle, they thoughtfully chose to make a contribution towards the gardening club—something that has been deeply appreciated by everyone involved. “We now volunteer, as the team were so fabulous to mum and us, when we come to the home, we are always greeted like family” .
As a new season begins, the gardening club continues to thrive, rooted in care, community, and a shared love of growing. The Care Home near Sidmouth look forward to what this season brings to its garden.
To find out more about Sundial Care Home, visit https://www.sundialcare.com/activities-in-care/