Embracing the outdoors this National Garden Week

During April, National Garden Week has provided a welcome opportunity to enjoy the early sunshine and celebrate the simple yet powerful benefits of spending time outdoors.

With a well-loved garden and courtyard already in place at Portway House, residents have plenty of opportunities to enjoy fresh air, connect with nature, and take part in gentle, meaningful activities that support both wellbeing and independence.

Support from Dobbies Garden Centre this month has further enhanced these experiences, with the donation of flower and vegetable seeds helping to make gardening more accessible and inclusive for all.

As Faye Gailey, Portway Home Manager, explains: "Spending time outside gives residents a real sense of purpose, whether that's nurturing plants or simply enjoying the environment around them, it's about feeling connected and involved."

That sense of enjoyment and contribution is at the heart of National Garden Week at Portway House. Activities are designed to be flexible and engaging, from sensory planting that focuses on textures and scents to seasonal planting that allows residents to see the results of their efforts over time.

The garden and courtyard are more than just outdoor spaces, they are places where residents can reconnect with familiar hobbies, build confidence, and share experiences with others. Whether it's watching something grow, taking pride in small achievements, or simply enjoying time outside, these moments all contribute to a greater sense of wellbeing.

With thoughtful support and a space that encourages participation, Portway continues to show how even the simplest connections with nature can make a meaningful difference to daily life.