On Thursday, 16th October, the Greenfingers Charity proudly celebrated the opening of The Centred Garden at Acorns Children’s Hospice in Walsall. This joyful, inclusive outdoor space was thoughtfully designed to offer comfort, connection, and inspiration to the children and families who spend time at the hospice. 
 
Created by Vanessa and Rachel of VaRa Garden Design and brought to life by Paul Taylor Landscapes, The Centred Garden was envisioned as a safe, accessible, and stimulating environment for children of all ages and abilities. With sensory planting, interactive zones and tranquil seating areas, the garden invites play, exploration, and quiet reflection - helping families connect with one another and with nature throughout the seasons.
 
The garden’s creation was made possible through the generous support of The Hospital Saturday Fund, LOFA, Clarins, and many wonderful Greenfingers supporters - including those who participated in Garden Re-Leaf Day - as well as a number of Trusts and Foundations. Additional gifts in kind were donated by industry partners including Noma, MK Illuminations, Rolawn, Hozelock, Treadstone and Ball Colegrave, who provided vibrant Beacon Impatiens to the hospice during the summer months.
 
The Centred Garden was officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Greenfingers Patron, David Domoney, joined by children who use the hospice alongside their carers. The event welcomed supporters and friends from across the horticultural industry, including Phil Hurst, Jo Charlton, Richard Jackson Roger Head, Anya Gooding along with Mark Butler and the Vitax team, Jason Eagles, members of the Kilimanjaro Trekkers fundraising team, and many others who have played a vital role in bringing the charity’s vision to life.
 
Speaking about the garden opening, Boyd Douglas Davies, Chairman at Greenfingers Charity, said: “The Centred Garden is a remarkable example of what can be achieved when compassion, creativity and collaboration are guided by a shared commitment to improving the lives of others. 
 
“This beautifully designed sensory space now offers a safe, inclusive environment where children of all ages and abilities can engage with nature, explore freely, and find moments of joy and connection. As Chairman of Greenfingers Charity, I am immensely proud of what has been accomplished and deeply grateful to every supporter, donor and partner whose generosity has helped bring this very special garden to life.”
 
This latest project marked another milestone in Greenfingers Charity’s ongoing mission to design and build beautiful, therapeutic gardens for life-limited children and families in hospices across the UK, spaces where memories are made, comfort is found, and nature plays a healing role every day.