We are delighted to share that the garden at our newly renovated family refuge has been transformed into a beautiful sensory space, thanks to the incredible generosity of Bright Horizons’ Bright Spaces programme. 

Designed with children in mind, the sensory garden provides a welcoming outdoor environment where young residents can play, explore, and connect with nature. After experiencing or witnessing domestic abuse, many children arrive at refuge having faced significant disruption and trauma. Access to safe outdoor spaces can play an important role in helping them feel calm, regulate their emotions, and simply enjoy being children again. 

Research consistently highlights the benefits of spending time outdoors, with nature supporting emotional wellbeing, reducing stress and anxiety, and encouraging creativity, confidence, and positive mental health. We hope this new space will offer families moments of peace, joy, and healing as they begin to rebuild their lives. 

This wonderful project would not have been possible without the support of Bright Horizon’s Bright Spaces, and we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Tracy Boyle and Tracy Wilkes-Green for their kindness, dedication, and continued support throughout the project.

We would also like to thank the amazing team of volunteers who generously gave their time, energy, and hard work to bring the garden to life. Their enthusiasm and commitment have created a lasting legacy that will benefit women and children for years to come.