This summer, our supported living service, Montgomery House in Greater Manchester, celebrated the transformation of its outdoor space. Entering a competition earlier in the year and submitting their ideas for how the space could be improved, they secured funding and turned a once plain area into a welcoming and uplifting one.
The project was made possible through a partnership with Encircle Housing and was shaped by the ideas and aspirations of the people we support. What has emerged is more than a garden, it is a space for connection, relaxation, and well-being.
“It has been incredible to see our tenants’ vision for their garden come to life at Montgomery House in Radcliffe after they won our Outdoor Makeover competition.
The garden is now a place where everyone comes together in a peaceful, welcoming area with a real sense of belonging. A special thank you to our tenants and the care staff at Northern Healthcare for helping us with the project, and to Tidy Gardens and EEM (a not-for-profit procurement consortium) for their generous donations to help us make this happen.”
Peter Aviston, Managing Director at Encircle Housing
The makeover began with colour. Fencing was painted in a soft cornflower blue, while trellises in a rich charcoal shade. Decking was refreshed and prepared for the installation of low-maintenance artificial grass, chosen for its soft feel and year-round greenery.
Planters were then added across the decking and along the fencing. Filled with vibrant flowers and evergreens, they bring life and interest to the space in every season. The garden also now includes a small kitchen garden, with fresh rhubarb already growing, a simple addition that further enhances the sense of purpose and enjoyment outdoors.
” I am really overjoyed with the new renovation of the garden area; it’s been fantastic to see all the hard work and dedication in completing this process. Both people we support, staff, and Encircle worked really hard to ensure this was completed. This renovation was very personal to all of the people that live here at Montgomery House. Each person adding their own little touch, this has been heartwarming to see the happiness it has already brought, and we are looking forward to spending much time enjoying the space in the sun.”
Jade Herdson, Montgomery House Service Manager
This transformation was very much a collective effort. The people we support played an active role throughout, from helping to clear and paint, to choosing colours and plants. Their involvement has given the space a real sense of ownership and pride.
Our team, alongside partners and supporters, worked hard to bring this vision to life. The result is an outdoor environment that reflects community spirit and creates opportunities for both social connection and quiet reflection.
” From start to finish, this was a really exciting process of the renovation, it was really positive to get all the people we support involved in designing their dream garden area. Now finished, it’s a welcoming and relaxing environment for people to socialise and enjoy together.”
Kimberley Taylor, Montgomery House Team Leader
To mark the progress so far, a garden celebration was held at Montgomery House. The people we support, together with staff, came together to enjoy food, conversation, and time outdoors in the sunshine. It was a chance to appreciate the hard work that had gone into the project and to see the positive impact of the space first-hand.
The garden project is ongoing, with plans to add outdoor lighting to extend the use of the space into the evenings. A new fence and gate have already been installed, providing additional privacy and security for everyone to enjoy the garden with confidence. These finishing touches will ensure the garden continues to meet the needs of the Montgomery House community for years to come.
“I like the garden, it’s more private from the public with the fences and I feel safe. It’s brighter and makes me feel happy. I am looking forward to summer more.”
Person We Support, Montgomery House
The renovation of the Montgomery House garden demonstrates the difference that a thoughtfully designed space can make. It is not only a place to spend time outdoors in fresh air and nature, but also a source of pride and well-being for those who use it.
We are proud of what has been achieved and grateful to everyone who contributed to making this vision a reality.
Thank you again to Encircle Housing.
