TEXO Foundation Celebrates 5th Anniversary with Four Key Projects for The Archie Foundation – PROJECT 4

Glenlaw Hospital Outdoor Sensory Garden Makeover (Dundee)

Recognising the vital role that engaging and safe outdoor environments play in the wellbeing of children, the TEXO Foundation has embarked on an ambitious makeover of the hospital’s outdoor sensory garden.

For too long, the existing play area at Glenlaw Hospital has suffered from neglect. Overgrown bushes have encroached on precious play space, limiting activities like imaginative “Bear Hunt” games that bring joy and movement to young patients. Crucially, essential elements like play equipment, accessibility, and sensory features are in need of significant improvement, rendering the area unsafe and uninviting for the children and their caregivers.

Driven by a commitment to creating positive and supportive environments, The TEXO Foundation has stepped in to transform this underutilised space. The objective is clear: to create a safe, stimulating, and enjoyable sensory garden that caters to the diverse needs of the children who rely on Glenlaw Hospital’s care.

The refurbishment work is tackling several key areas:

Ensuring Safe and Inclusive Play: A primary concern is the non-functioning locking mechanism on the wheelchair swing. The Foundation is prioritising the repair or replacement of this vital piece of equipment to ensure safe and accessible play for all children, regardless of their mobility.

Providing Essential Shade: Understanding the vulnerability of some children to sun exposure due to medical conditions, the project includes the installation of a much-needed shading solution for the gazebo area. This could take the form of a retractable system or a fixed canopy, offering a protected space while maintaining the open and airy feel of the garden.

Reclaiming Playful Pathways: The dense, overgrown bushes that currently restrict movement and play are being carefully trimmed and will be maintained to create clearer pathways and expand the usable play area. This will once again allow for spontaneous and imaginative games like the beloved “Bear Hunt.”

Honouring Memories in a Tranquil Space: The existing memorial garden, marked by faded and worn painted stones around a tree, is set for a thoughtful restoration. Drawing inspiration from similar beautiful installations at Glenlaw House and Dundee Botanic Garden, the team plans to refresh this area with new glass statues and elements, creating a more lasting and serene space for reflection.

Awakening the Senses: Recognising the therapeutic benefits of sensory stimulation, the current planting scheme is being revitalised with a focus on engaging all the senses. Fragrant plants like lavender and rosemary will release calming aromas, while brightly coloured flowers and reflective objects will provide visual interest and tactile exploration. This thoughtful selection of sensory planting will create a richer and more therapeutic environment for the children.

The TEXO Foundation believes that access to engaging and safe outdoor spaces is crucial for the physical, emotional, and cognitive development of children, especially those facing health challenges. This sensory garden makeover at Glenlaw Hospital represents a commitment to providing these vital opportunities. By restoring and enhancing this outdoor area, the Foundation aims to create a haven where children can experience moments of joy, engage with their surroundings, and connect with nature, ultimately contributing to their overall wellbeing and recovery.