Sight loss charity to open special therapeutic space

A sight loss charity has been awarded a grant for a new therapeutic garden to help people move on from the challenges they face.

The project, called Life Grows On, will see six alotments and a water feature installed in a former dog pen at the Sight Matters headquarters in Corrin Court, Onchan.

Created in partnership with the Manx Deaf Society, Cruse Bereavement and the Alzheimers' Society, the project was awarded a grant of £21,385 from Manx Lottery Trust.

Charity spokesman Peter Marshall said the garden was for people to meet others and "grow things which symbolises moving on from whatever challenges they face".

The garden would include features such as raised planters, tactile signage, and guided gardening sessions to make the space accessible for all.

The funding would allow the charities to "create a much-needed therapeutic space where members of our community can come together, reflect, and experience the healing power of nature", Mr Marshall said.

"Gardening offers so many benefits, and we're excited to provide an inclusive, accessible environment where people can nurture both plants and their own emotional wellbeing," he added.

Chief executive Cathryn Bradley said the project would provide a space for the various charities to grow what they wanted in their allotments.

Work for the project, which it is hoped will be completed by the end of summer, was being undertaken by prison work parties.

Unlike Sight Matters' Freedom Field, which required a fob to access, the space would be openly available for members of the charities at all times.

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