Horatio’s Garden Wales, located at the heart of University Hospital Llandough in Cardiff, has received a generous grant of £7,000 from the Millennium Stadium Charitable Trust in support of the charity’s arts programme.
Since launching a nationwide arts programme in 2021, research conducted by Horatio’s Garden has demonstrated the emotional and rehabilitative benefits of artistic activities for thousands of people affected by spinal injury throughout the UK.
The arts programme in action in Horatio’s Garden Wales at University Hospital Llandough in Cardiff, organised and run by nationwide charity Horatio’s Garden
Opening in May 2022, Horatio’s Garden Wales hosts a wide range of creative activities that are designed to improve the physical and psychological outcomes of people adjusting to life-changing injuries. From willow weaving to watercolours, to ceramics and music performances, the charity’s arts programme aims to engage and support everyone.
The charity’s research demonstrates that the arts programme is having a profoundly positive impact on people’s lives. A survey conducted in Horatio’s Garden Wales reveals that 100% of patients find the craft workshops and live music to be helpful for their rehabilitation. They also form part of the nationwide research conducted by the charity, which details that 97% of patients report finding a distraction from pain when taking part in the programme, whilst 92% state that their hand or arm movements were strengthened or refined as a result.
Chris*, a beneficiary of the arts programme in Horatio’s Garden Wales said: “Horatio’s Garden is a wonderful place, and it has had a hugely positive impact on my rehabilitation. The art classes and craft sessions helped me tremendously as they were working my hands and getting me back into a hobby I love! Set in the most beautiful garden and surrounded by gorgeous plants, there’s always something glorious to draw or be inspired by. I will forever be grateful to Horatio’s Garden.”
Victoria Holton, Trustee of Horatio’s Garden and a former patient with a spinal injury, said: “Having a spinal injury and finding yourself in hospital can be a very scary and lonely experience. The arts programme helps to build a sense of community between patients during their long hospital stays and encourages free flowing conversation in a relaxed environment. Patients’ loved ones are encouraged to join as well.”
The Millennium Stadium Charitable Trust provides financial support to inspiring projects throughout Wales. Causes championed by the Trust span the worlds of sport, business, the environment and more. The Millennium Stadium Charitable Trust’s grant to Horatio’s Garden Wales has been instrumental in securing the future of the charity’s arts programme.
Horatio’s Garden is an independent charity nurturing the wellbeing of people after spinal injury in beautiful, vibrant sanctuaries in the heart of NHS spinal injury centres. The charity is reliant on public support. To donate and find out more, please visit horatiosgarden.org.uk.
