Open Gardens 2024: Creative ways to fund nursing care

The National Open Garden Scheme is an incredible venture that gives the public access to more than 3500 outstanding gardens in the UK whilst raising huge amounts of money for nursing and health charities through admissions, and sales of tea and cake.

“Thanks to the generosity of garden owners, volunteers and visitors we have donated over £63 million to nursing and health charities, and in 2021 donated over £3 million. Our beneficiaries include Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Hospice UK and The Queen’s Nursing Institute.” - NGS

At a time where the NHS is under immense pressure, we rely on charities to fill the gaps that conventional healthcare cannot facilitate. However, these services still need to be funded and this requires creative thinking. This is why I love the National Garden Scheme, which creates enjoyable activities for families whilst also funding vital services. Not only that, but it gets people outside and into nature to enjoy flowers, plants and green spaces, which is good for their own mental and physical health.

I visited the Midsummer Garden in Faringdon, which is a beautiful cottage garden designed by Justin Spink for his parents in 2015. With a range of rare plants, a beautiful stream running through it and plenty of areas to walk, sit and reflect, it is a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Teas, coffees and cakes were served from a beautiful garden building and guests were encouraged to spend as long as they wanted enjoying the surroundings.

I love the idea of using plants and flowers for good. When solving big problems with creativity my advice has always been to start with what you have. What can you do with that? It is amazing what can be achieved!