Residents at Cwrt Mytton Care Home in Abertillery are enjoying a brighter and more welcoming outdoor environment thanks to the efforts of volunteers who gave up their time to help spruce up the home's gardens over two days (Wednesday 22nd and Thursday 23rd July).
Cwrt Mytton, which is managed by Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council, is home to more than 20 residents who regularly use the care home's internal courtyard gardens for outdoor activities, socialising and relaxation.
Recognising that the gardens would benefit from some extra care and attention, Care Home Manager Sian Gardner contacted British Gas and the Welsh Government Warm Homes Nest Scheme, which have supported a range of community projects and partnership initiatives across Blaenau Gwent and Wales.
Through a community volunteering initiative coordinated by British Gas colleagues working on the Welsh Government Warm Homes Nest Scheme, volunteers worked alongside Council staff, local residents and community members to transform the outdoor spaces.
The project took place over two days, with a total of 18 volunteers contributing their time and effort. Day one saw support from British Gas volunteers, a local drama teacher and five students, and a local resident. A second team of British Gas volunteers returned on day two to continue the work alongside a member of the Council's Organisational Development Team.
Sian Gardner, Care Home Manager at Cwrt Mytton, said:
"Our residents make regular use of the courtyard gardens and outdoor spaces, whether that's taking part in activities, spending time with visitors or simply enjoying some fresh air.
"The gardens were in need of a little spruce up and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who volunteered their time and energy to help transform them. The difference they have made is fantastic and we know our residents and their families will find the outdoor spaces much more enjoyable.
"The timing could not have been better as all the work was completed in time for our Hawaiian-themed party on Friday afternoon. It was wonderful to see so many residents and staff making the most of the refreshed space."
Michelle Symonds, Community Engagement Manager for the Welsh Government Warm Homes Nest Scheme at British Gas, said:
"Supporting communities extends beyond helping people improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Through the Welsh Government Warm Homes Nest Scheme, we work with partners across Wales to create wider social value, strengthen community wellbeing and support local initiatives that make a lasting difference.
We were delighted that British Gas colleagues could volunteer their time to support Cwrt Mytton. The project has helped create a more welcoming, dementia-friendly outdoor environment that residents, families and visitors can enjoy for years to come."
The project highlights the positive impact that partnership working and volunteering can have across Blaenau Gwent communities, helping to enhance facilities and improve the wellbeing of residents.
Looking ahead, Cwrt Mytton hopes to build on the success of the project by establishing ongoing volunteering opportunities to help maintain and further develop the gardens.
Sian added:
"We would love to make this an ongoing volunteering opportunity. Anyone who is interested in helping us maintain these areas in the future would be very welcome to get in touch and we would be happy to make arrangements."
Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council would like to thank British Gas colleagues, the Welsh Government Warm Homes Nest Scheme, community volunteers and Council staff for their hard work, generosity and dedication in helping create a brighter and more accessible outdoor space for Cwrt Mytton residents.