Support creation of therapeutic memory garden within Retford school grounds
Work has begun on creating a special place within the grounds of a Retford school, in the form of a Memory Garden.
St Giles School has launched a major community appeal to help fund the dedicated Memory Garden, with £3,500 raised currently towards the project.
Working with the Friends of St Giles charity, the school launched a GoFundMe campaign alongside opportunities for local businesses, community groups and individuals to support the project through sponsorship, fundraising events and donations.
The Memory Garden will provide a peaceful, accessible and sensory-rich environment where pupils, families and staff can remember loved ones, reflect during difficult times and find comfort within the heart of the St Giles community.
Designed specifically with children and young people with additional needs in mind, the garden will become a permanent place of remembrance and wellbeing for generations to come.
A complete transformation is planned, of an outdoor area into a beautiful therapeutic garden, featuring accessible pathways, specialist planting, seating, sensory features and spaces for quiet reflection.
Matt Rooney, executive principal of St Giles School, said: "At St Giles, we are much more than a school – we are a family. Sadly, like every community, we experience loss, and having a special place where our pupils, families and staff can remember those they love has become increasingly important.
"This Memory Garden will be somewhere children can visit when words are difficult, somewhere families can reflect, and somewhere our staff can continue to honour members of our community who will always remain part of TeamStGiles.
“We have been overwhelmed by the response so far. To have already raised more than £3,500 is a wonderful reflection of the kindness and generosity of our community, but we still have a long way to go."
The school is inviting individuals, community groups and businesses to become part of the project by: making a one-off donation, organising a fundraising event, providing corporate sponsorship, materials or professional expertise.
Businesses who support the project will not only help create a lasting legacy for one of Nottinghamshire's leading special schools but also demonstrate a meaningful commitment to social value, community wellbeing and inclusion.
Matt Rooney added: "This is a project that belongs to the whole community. Whether someone donates £5, organises a fundraising event, provides materials or becomes one of our corporate partners, every contribution brings us closer to creating a place of comfort, hope and remembrance for generations of St Giles families.
“We would particularly love to hear from local businesses who share our commitment to supporting children, young people and families. Together, we can create something truly extraordinary."
You can donate to the Memorial Garden Appeal at https://gofund.me/752a527de
Anyone interested in corporate sponsorship, donating materials or supporting the project should contact St Giles School.