Two New Sensory Gardens For The Midlands As €31,000 Grant Announced

Thursday, 16 December 2021 08:15

The Minister for Disabilities says she's seen first-hand the positive impact of initiatives like these.

€31,000 is being allocated for the development of two sensory gardens in the midlands.

It's part of a wider €1 million funding announcement from the Minister for Disabilities.

€20,000 is going towards developing a garden at the RehabCare Millbrook House in Offaly, with another €11,000 for the Irish Wheelchair Association Clonbrusk Resource Centre in Athlone.

The sensory gardens will contain plants and the materials are specifically chosen to stimulate the senses and are of particular benefit to people with disabilities.

Applications for funding were open to organisations providing services and supports for children or adults with disabilities, which are funded by the HSE.

Minister Ann Rabbitte commented;

"I am delighted to announce the successful applications for these sensory gardens. There is so much evidence that highlights how sensory supports including sensory gardens improve the quality of life of people with disabilities, as well as provide an accessible space to enjoy.

"One of the great benefits for me as Minister for Disabilities has been to see first-hand the positive impact of initiatives like this, where one can experience the textures, smells and sounds of gardens that greatly enhance an entire community. During some of my visits to Disability Services, I have seen very good examples of sensory gardens and this funding can help increase the number of such projects around the country.

"I’m very excited to see that some of the attached initiatives will include people with disabilities being involved in the design and build of their sensory garden, bringing to life the horticultural skills they have developed in day and residential services.

The minister says a second round of funding will be announced next year;

"I am sure that these gardens will be greatly utilized by people with disabilities, their families, friends and the wider community. Such was the interest in this initiative, I look forward to running a second round in 2022."