Community fundraising helps a mental health unit spruce up its greenhouse

Dorset HealthCare’s Linden Unit, which specialises in providing assessment, joint planning and therapeutic treatment for individuals who have mental health needs, has enjoyed a transformation to restore the dilapidated outbuilding to its former glory.

A local Rotary club, pub and glass business all chipped in to support the project after the greenhouse was almost totally destroyed during one of the winter storms last year.

Previously it has played an important part in the occupational therapy provided to patients and Linden Unit volunteer Denise Andrew approached the Rotary Club of Melcombe Regis to seek support to rebuild it.

Members of the club immediately began work on the greenhouse, checking what was needed and sourcing materials.

As well as other damage, the original plastic panels had been completely destroyed and had to be replaced.

These were provided free of charge by Weymouth Glass and fitted with reinforced steels bars to ensure they will withstand future gales.

The Alexander Inn on Chickerell Road, Weymouth, also leant its support with two quiz nights raising funds for new shelving, pots and tools.

Roger Willis from Melcombe Regis Rotary, said: “We were pleased to help, knowing how valuable the greenhouse is to the patients at Linden Unit.

Ward manager at the Linden Unit Sarah Suart said: “I am very grateful for all the help given; it has been such a fantastic community effort.

“The Linden patients have benefitted from having a functional greenhouse where they have been able to spend time growing flowers and vegetables from seeds and making the Linden garden a pleasure to relax in.

“It’s very therapeutic being involved in the garden.”

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