14 August 2024
A retirement community in Paignton has continued to flourish, bonding over community activities in the outdoor space at their development.
After an initial project to rejuvenate the large communal gardens, enthusiasm among neighbours has blossomed into a fully-fledged year-round program of activities.
At Tembani Court, an independent retirement living development, community engagement is a key component of day-to-day life. In 2022, green-fingered residents volunteered to help renovate their gardens to host a party for the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
The success of this project and the subsequent community event inspired residents to form the Tembani Community Gardening Club.
This club has allowed more and more residents to enjoy the social and inclusive nature of the group while also benefitting from the beautifully maintained garden, a testament to their hard work.
The gardening club welcomes all residents, regardless of physical capability, to contribute to gardening projects in whatever way they can.
Even the heavy rain in recent months has not dampened their enthusiasm, with members braving the elements to carry out weeding, planting, digging, and splitting plants, as well as clearing areas in preparation for improved landscaping and creating a ‘seaside garden’ in time for the summer months.
This community spirit has also inspired the group to consider their positive environmental impact. Recently, six residents attended Torre Abbey Gardens, a local landmark, to learn about the methods and benefits of composting through the winter months.
The gardening club is now ready to celebrate its work among some of the UK’s finest community gardens, having recently entered Britain in Bloom South West: 2024 It’s Your Neighbourhood Award, a Scheme that recognises outstanding gardening projects by communities across the country.
Lorraine and Kay, Development Managers at Tembani Court, said:
We’re extremely proud of the Gardening Club at Tembani Court. It has gone from strength to strength since it was founded by our residents, and it’s a shining example of the community spirit inherent in retirement living. It’s great to see the club continually finding new ways to improve and enjoy the garden space in a manner that is accessible for all residents and beneficial to the environment.
Martin Wright, Projects Coordinator, Tembani Community Gardening Club, added: “I am amazed at the progress our small group has made this year. The gardens surrounding all four sides of our property are looking beautiful, so much colour and variety with constant change.
“The new patio and seating have already proved to be a magnet for a chat or a cup of tea and we’re looking forward to seeing the further developments in the Seaside Garden.
“Our hot composting bin has produced liquid fertiliser within two weeks and compost by the end of the first month, clearly great for the environment and a contribution to recycling endeavours. Lorraine should get loads of credit for getting us together two years ago followed by her consistent encouragement and support since.”
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