Volunteers from GSK have been getting their hands dirty transforming the garden of the Crossroads Care Respite Centre in Roebuck, Stevenage. GSK’s Environment, Health, Safety and Sustainability team used their ‘Orange Day’ to create a cheerful garden for the Centre’s clients to enjoy.

Crossroads Care supports 45 local residents with a long term condition at its Stevenage Respite Centre whilst their family members have a break from their caring role.

Tracy Potts, Respite Centre Supervisor, said: “We really appreciate the support from GSK to help us create an inviting outdoor space for clients and also for donating a bench so that they can enjoy some fresh air. The volunteers were very well organised, they arrived really keen to get on with it and did an absolutely wonderful job. The clients that attend the Centre have already commented on how lovely the garden looks and how fresh and bright it is. There is also an opportunity for our green fingered clients to help with the upkeep of the area, which can be very therapeutic”.

The garden makeover was made possible with plant advice and transport from Seasons Grounds Care and a grant from Stevenage Borough Council’s Local Community budget and is part of a wider modernisation programme for the Respite Centre to ensure that it continues to provide the best support for clients, over 80% of whom have dementia.