Ashlynn Grange in Peterborough is delighted to welcome Matt Jones as their new gardener, and he’s already making a significant impact on the grounds and residents.
With a passion for horticulture and a deep commitment to creating beautiful and sustainable outdoor spaces, Matt is poised to transform the gardens of Ashlynn Grange for everyone to enjoy.
A passion for gardening and sustainability
Matt’s journey into gardening began in his childhood, spending countless hours in the garden with his grandfather. From weeding to working in the greenhouse, Matt developed a love for gardening that has stayed with him throughout his life.
Although he has explored other careers, including working as a salesman, his heart has always been in gardening. Before joining the team at Ashlynn Grange, Matt worked at a country park by the Nene River in Peterborough and as a regional gardener responsible for nine care homes within another care home group. Now, he brings his wealth of experience and enthusiasm to Ashlynn Grange.
One of Matt’s key focuses is sustainability. He recently helped Ashlynn Grange to win an award at the Athena in Bloom 2024 competition for an innovative irrigation system on a timer, which he hopes to further improve by incorporating rainwater harvesting and maximising the use of water butts on the property.
Additionally, Matt is repurposing old pallets to create planters that will be filled with bulbs and seeds for the spring, showcasing his dedication to environmentally friendly practices.
Transforming Ashlynn Grange’s gardens
Matt’s current focus at Ashlynn Grange involves tidying up the gardens for autumn and winter, starting with the front of the house. He firmly believes that first impressions count, and he is eager to make the entrance to Ashlynn Grange as welcoming and beautiful as possible. As he looks forward to his first full year of managing the gardens, Matt is excited about the potential of the grounds and the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of the residents.
In addition to his gardening work, Matt is setting up a gardening club for the residents, encouraging them to get involved and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of gardening. This initiative not only brings the community together but also provides a sense of purpose and joy for those who participate.
The importance of outdoor spaces in care homes
Gardens and outdoor spaces play a crucial role in the wellbeing of our residents. Some of the key benefits of having beautiful and accessible outdoor areas in care homes include:
- Improved mental health: Access to green spaces has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Spending time outdoors, whether gardening or simply enjoying the scenery, can boost mood and overall mental wellbeing.
- Physical activity: Gardening and other outdoor activities encourage residents to stay active, which is important for maintaining physical health, flexibility, and strength, especially in older adults.
- Social interaction: Gardens provide a communal space where residents can gather, chat, and engage in group activities, fostering social connections and reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.
- Sense of purpose: Participating in gardening activities gives residents a sense of responsibility and achievement, whether they are planting seeds, watering plants, or simply helping to maintain the garden.
- Connection with nature: Being outdoors and interacting with nature can provide a sense of peace and fulfilment. For many residents, it can also evoke fond memories of past experiences with gardening and nature.
- Enhanced environment: A well-maintained garden enhances the overall environment of the care home, making it a pleasant and inviting place for residents, the team, and visitors alike.
Matt Jones’s arrival at Ashlynn Grange marks an exciting new chapter for the gardens and the community. With his dedication to sustainability and passion for creating beautiful, accessible outdoor spaces, Matt is set to make a positive impact that will be felt by all who live and work at Ashlynn Grange. Residents deserve the best, and Matt is committed to ensuring that includes a thriving, vibrant garden that everyone can enjoy.
