Billingham residents bring their communal garden to life

The initiative at High Grange House, one of our sheltered housing schemes, has been led by residents Karen and Malcolm Moody, who moved into their home just over one year ago.

With a love for gardening and a vision to create a social hub, the couple rolled up their sleeves and began the transformation, bringing colour and a renewed sense of community into the garden.

Karen, a keen gardener said: “I love being outdoors and I wanted to make the garden a place where we can relax, chat and enjoy some fresh air. I picked up some ideas online and got stuck in. It’s great to see our neighbours out here chatting and making the most of the space.”

Living well coordinator Amanda Hodgson, who supports the residents at the scheme said: “When I saw the incredible efforts, we stepped in to support the transformation. I called on our estates services team to build pergolas and plant a cherry and an apple tree to enhance the space even further.”

To celebrate the transformation, Thirteen’s housing and communities director Kay Glew, paid a visit to the scheme. Having once worked there as a housing team leader 35 years ago, it brought back some fond memories.

Kay said: “It’s clear to see how much effort has been put in by Karen and Malcolm, and that’s been complemented by those finishes touches from our estates team. The garden looks fantastic.”

Amanda continued: “Karen and Malcolm have done a brilliant job. Not only have they improved the garden, but they’ve created a much-loved spot for people to come together, and it’s made such a positive difference.”