Work begins on £200,000 garden transformation at Walsall children’s hospice

Once complete, the garden at the Acorns hospice on Walstead Road will allow families with children facing life-limiting illnesses to create lasting memories together.

The works follow a turnaround in fortune after the hospice feared its doors would have to close in 2019 due to rising costs.

Councillor Tim Wilson, portfolio holder for children’s services at the time, said he and fellow members were concerned about the huge impact the proposed closure would have on children, families and staff.

The hospice cares for over 230 children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions every year.

But less than four years later enough funds were raised to keep the facility open, and it reopened following refurbishment in 2023.

This week, the latest update from the hospice comes with further good news, that works have started on transforming the hospice’s garden.

Carmel Caldicott, matron at the Walstead Road hospice, said: “Every child deserves the joy of outdoor play.

“Visiting a play park isn’t always possible for the children and families we support and for those who can, accessibility can be a real struggle.

“But every aspect of the new garden has been designed with our children and their families in mind to create a magical space where they can laugh, explore and make cherished memories together.

“Our new garden will be a place for fairy tales, curiosity and exploration, with a sensory space for discovery, and a sanctuary where children and families can enjoy precious time together.

Plans include colourful zones for children’s activities, sensory enhancements, paths and arches, a sunken trampoline, a basket swing and even outdoor musical instruments.

Every bedroom in the hospice will look out onto the new garden, which also features planters, multi-coloured canopies and lighting.

The project has been funded by Greenfingers, a charity which creates gardens for children in hospices across the UK.