We’re always happy to receive feedback from previous visitors and participants in our various events. If you would like to find out more about our gardens, be sure to reach out to our team.
Pens Meadow SEMH Students: They attend Hawbush as part of their Work Related Skills development curriculum. This also works towards Preparation for Adulthood as our students develop independence and communication skills in the wider community. Community Engagement and a sense of belonging is a key feature of our sessions as we learn life skills in regard to travel and road safety. Time at Hawbush also supports IEP targets and evidence towards their EHCP annual reviews when consider next steps and outcomes.
Dudley Stroke Association about activity at HCG: "We have held 22 sessions totalling 77 hours at Hawbush delivering patient-led sessions. We have also had a further 10 sessions for DSA staff wellbeing totalling 35 hours. We have had 78 contacts across the patient-led sessions. Patient outcomes have noted improved mental well-being, health, and dexterity, particularly hand and arm movements."
Dudley Youth Justice Service: Megan Wilson, Reparation & Volunteer Co-ordinator: "Availability of HCG site for gardening, art/craft work & building allows flexibility in plan & significant therapeutic value. Children have the opportunity to learn new skills like gardening, site maintenance and woodwork. We have supported 7 children to complete ASDAN awards. Case studies show positive impact. Working with the children over a period of time, you can see the gradual changes that take place. Being at HCG can give our children a ‘time out’ from their chaotic lives and allow them to be children for a short time. HCG offers them a safe haven where they feel included, their contributions are appreciated and they are able to enjoy nature and learn new skills. Several children have commented on how relaxing it is being at the gardens. Volunteers are friendly and welcoming and Ken is an inspiration. He treats the children with respect and in return, they learn social skills and positive values. We want to offer the children a space where they can chill out."
Dudley College of Technology: 12 students attend 2-hour, weekly sessions developing allotment plot. DCT tutor comments: “A fantastic resource. A place to leave your phone and be at one with nature. A place to learn lifelong skills which have often been forgotten with time.”
Mom’s Mindful Hub: The Tuesday morning “nature play” sessions continued throughout the year, with increased attendance and interest. One of many impact quotes from parents and children: “We have been coming to Nature Play for a few months now and we only wish we’d found it sooner. We love the focus on outdoor exploration, and how well it nurtures their curiosity and creativity. We leave every session with a smile and can’t wait to come back.” Another mom comments, “The Mindful Explorers Group creates a safe, welcoming and affirming space for my autistic family, in a world where safe, welcoming and affirming spaces are hard to come by.” From Your Voice, Autumn 2024.
Amblecote Community Church: the regular family afternoon events have been a great hit, with support from many families in the community “Fantastic events, which all the children look forward to. Wonderful family-friendly environment.”
Nicolas Maione, Google Reviews: "It is an absolute pleasure to visit here. So tranquil and peaceful, it is so easy to lose yourself here forgetting all of your troubles and worries."
Helen Perry, Google Reviews: "Lovely place to visit, took my son to an organised event here and he loved exploring. Hidden oasis in a suburban area."
Kim Hayes, Google Reviews: "The people are so friendly and welcoming and the gardens are beautiful to walk through."
Siddique Hussain, Google Reviews: "Wonderful work by a greater bunch of volunteers has created this haven in an urban setting."
