Local Therapy Garden Supporting Mental Health Shortlisted for BBC Award

Published on: 23 Jun, 2025
Updated on: 29 Jun, 2025

A therapeutic garden in Surrey has been shortlisted for a BBC Radio Surrey Make a Difference Award for its innovative work supporting mental health and biodiversity.

The St Ebba’s Therapy Garden, located in Epsom and used by residents across the county, has been named a finalist for the Green Award, which celebrates efforts to improve the local environment. Developed by Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust in collaboration with Surrey County Council, the garden is designed as a peaceful space for young people and adults with learning disabilities and mental health challenges.

The site, a former cricket ground and pavilion, now hosts native flora, sensory plants and enclosed hedgerows, encouraging biodiversity and offering a therapeutic backdrop for sessions. Therapists trained in nature-based interventions support individuals facing conditions such as anxiety, low mood and trauma—many of whom had struggled to access support in more traditional clinical environments.

One parent from Guildford shared their thoughts: “Our daughter has benefitted from the garden as she loves the outdoors but is unable to go outside at times due to her anxiety. This is a safe place for her to enjoy, and it has hugely improved her wellbeing.”

Another local young person who attends sessions said: “I really enjoy having my sessions in this nice, relaxed environment. The garden is a good place for me to calm down. I feel comfortable being there.”

The initiative is supported by local volunteers, businesses, and vocational programmes, including some participants from the Guildford area. Surrey Wildlife Trust and Natural England are also key partners. The garden’s design includes pollinator-friendly plants, sensory zones, and hedgerows that support wildlife corridors for birds and hedgehogs.

The award nomination reflects the growing importance of green spaces in addressing mental health needs within the community. As access to nature-based therapy gains wider recognition, projects like St Ebba’s are becoming increasingly valued across Surrey, including in urban centres such as Guildford.

The winners of the Make a Difference Awards will be announced later this year.

For more information, visit: www.sabp.nhs.uk