Awards celebrate Dougie Mac’s “Outstanding” gardens

The grounds of Dougie Mac’s two hospice sites have been recognised as “Outstanding” by the Royal Horticultural Society’s It’s Your Neighbourhood scheme.

Judges from the RHS visited Dougie Mac’s Blurton and Trentham hospice sites in the summer to assess the gardens based on community participation, environmental responsibility and gardening achievement. Earlier this month Dougie Mac’s Gardener, Vicki Stephenson, attended an awards ceremony where Dougie Mac’s gardens were officially awarded the highest accolade.

Cris Hammond, Director of HR and Support Services at Dougie Mac, said, “We’re thrilled to be awarded an outstanding rating for both our hospice sites and it’s a testament to our gardener Vicki and all the volunteers who help to maintain our grounds.

“Looking after the gardens at both our sites is a big team effort, Vicki is our only paid gardener and she relies on a team of regular volunteers who turn up every week, in all weathers – last year they gave more than 1,000 hours. We’re also supported by corporate volunteers who give their time to help with all types of essential garden maintenance throughout the year.

“We’re very proud of the gardens at both our hospice sites and they also play an important role, as spending time in green spaces can benefit mental and physical wellbeing.  Having a pleasant, well-maintained environment makes a big difference not only to the wellbeing of our patients, but also to our staff, volunteers and visitors. I’d like to take this opportunity to say a big well done and thank you to Vicki and all the volunteers who have made these awards possible.”