Rockinghorse garden blooms at grand opening

Tuesday 27 July 2010

Supporters gathered to celebrate the opening of Rockinghorse’s specially adapted and accessible garden at Finches Respite Centre in Burgess Hill, today (27 July).

Individuals, companies and trusts all donated money towards the garden, which cost almost £50,000 to complete and ensured that the garden could be completely redeveloped.

The garden, which was mostly laid to lawn and therefore unsuitable for wheelchair users, underwent a huge facelift to make it a safe haven for children with disabilities, allowing them to use all of their senses, experience the wonder of nature, socialise with friends and – most importantly – have fun.

The completed outside area now has play equipment, including a wheelchair-accessible roundabout, special flooring to ensure children can safely investigate the play area and a sensory hut with a jungle area to explore.

Finches provides short breaks for young people aged up to 19 with complex health needs. Many of the children at the centre have life limiting conditions, which leave them increasingly dependent on their parents and carers. The centre is part of Chailey Heritage Clinical Services, which is run by South Downs Health NHS Trust.

Carol Backler’s son, Bruce, 15 years old, has been using Finches for almost year. She said: “Finches has made such a difference to Bruce and me. It’s so lovely for him because he gets one-to-one care and attention, gets taken out on trips, and is completely spoilt.

“It also means that when he’s away, I get to do things like mow the lawn and take a leisurely bath! He’s really going to enjoy using the new Rockinghorse garden this summer – he especially loves the roundabout!”

Gavin Fisher, Rockinghorse Chief Executive, spoke at the opening. He said: “This is the best part of the process and what makes it all worthwhile – the finished garden is fantastic and we cannot thank everyone enough for the hard work that’s gone into it.

“We are extremely grateful to all those who have donated and we’re glad so many of you are here today to see the young people who use Finches enjoying the finished project. Our work here at Finches, however, is not complete and we look forward to working with the respite centre again in the future – please watch this space!”

Find out how you can get involved with other Rockinghorse projects by calling us on 01273 730286.