Barnet Hospital asked Gratitude to convert a dilapidated and overgrown area of land into a calming haven of rest and relaxation for the nurses and doctors of the Day Surgery Unit ( DSU). We are so grateful for all the amazing work of the doctors and nurses at Barnet Hospital every day and the non-stop support they are providing amidst the crisis of this global COVID-19 pandemic! As our charity have already done a similar project in another area the hospital was confident that we could deliver. We collect and use reclaimed stones and wilting and uncared for plants given by the supermarkets and with tender loving care bring it back to life in a new surrounding. We have a local artist offering to donate her time and skill to create a special garden ornament to be the focal point of this zen space. A garden centre has offered its design service free of cost. Only labour of the workmen was charged. We also have a number of plants collected and stored ready to plant.

What we'll deliver:

• Create a zen space
• Install benches where the nurses can rest
• Create a calming area to help de-stress
• Turn an overgrown derelict space into a haven of tranquility

Why it's a great idea:

In a 'normal' world the lives of doctors and nurses are very stressful . One does not have to go into great detail how much more stressful and in fact even dangerous to themselves their jobs have become. Putting their lives at risk these NHS frontline workers strive to look after the distressed, the wounded and those who have been inflicted. This little garden space will provide a much needed place for them to rest their tired feet . To that effect we hope to be able to put up benches and small tables . We have raised, in conjunction with the hospital nearly £900 by holding a bucket collection in Tesco ( pre lock down ) and the nurses themselves have raised certain funds. What we look to raise is £1000 towards benches and materials to supply to our artist and a further £500 towards paying for labour and some shingles and stones.

Steps to get it done:

• Work has stared by making a general plan
• Paving stones have been laid in place
• Plants are collected

We have photos of work in progress and plans from our donors on how they hope to complete the garden.