Mindful Memorial

Building on the growth of the reinvigorated community garden we were delighted to be accepted as a nominated local Community Cause from The Co-op.  We had a vision to get more use out of the garden by including a sheltered space that would encourage a wider variety of use including things like meditation, exercise, reading groups etc.  

As the pennies were rolling in so were the plans to host participatory budgeting events locally and at the first event in November 2022 (Cash and Chips) a seed was sown about the community wanting a place to remember those we have loved and lost, more specifically babies that were never held.  

A small group of local women got together and bounced some ideas around until it was agreed to combine the shelter and the memorial space into one. The plan was to have a tree of remembrance in the garden and a shelter in which to sit and hang personalised messages on the inside for those who wish.  As if by magic a cherry blossom tree was gifted to Victoria from Give it a Grow and planted in the garden in April.  

Quotes were obtained from local suppliers and at the following participatory budgeting event two designs were voted on. After checking with Keith and Susan at the church the hunt was on to find someone who could build us a base. 

 Ever resourceful Brenda volunteered her husband for the task and within a couple of weeks the ground was dug and the concrete in place ready for Phil from Mobey Multi Trade to start construction. He finished the roof on Friday and we are delighted with how it looks.  

Now it’s time for the local women to add the finishing touches and invite people to come and use it, however they chose whether that’s to remember, relax or read!