Emergency Department staff garden transformed at Royal United Hospitals Bath
Collaboration with Beard Construction provides a peaceful outdoor space for staff
Emergency Department staff at the Royal United Hospitals Bath now have access to a tranquil outdoor space designed to help them rest and recharge following its transformation. This development comes as a result of a collaboration between Beard Construction, RUHX, and the Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust.
The project, which revitalised the once overgrown and unused staff garden, forms part of Beard's ongoing relationship with the RUH, where they are delivering multiple construction projects across the site. Beard identified the opportunity to enhance staff wellbeing by revamping this garden space, illustrating the company's commitment to generating social value.
The Emergency Department is recognised as one of the hospital's most active and challenging areas, with teams providing vital care and support daily. Martin Pomeroy, Special Projects Manager at Beard, acknowledged the significant pressures faced by staff, saying: "I'd like to take a moment to recognise the incredible work that the Emergency Department does. Everyday teams face pressures and challenging situations that most of us can't imagine. That's why we wanted to create a space where colleagues can step away from the noise, gather their thoughts, enjoy a coffee and have a few minutes of fresh air before heading back into work."
Beard Construction worked alongside RUH Bath to transform the garden into a welcoming retreat. The revitalisation included clearing weeds, installing new fencing, laying fresh gravel and paving, creating a decking area, and furnishing the space with new tables, chairs, parasols, planters, and planting.
Karen Arkle, a Healthcare Support Worker in the Emergency Department, expressed the tangible impact of these changes: "The refurbishment of the Emergency Department garden has completely transformed the space. It now feels so much more inviting, comfortable and welcoming for staff. In such a busy and often demanding environment, having access to a calm outdoor space where we can step away for a few moments, reset and recharge is incredibly valuable."
RUHX, the hospital’s official charity, played a significant role in bringing this project to fruition. Rhyannon Boyd, Associate Director at RUHX, conveyed gratitude: "On behalf of RUHX and the Royal United Hospitals Bath, we would like to say a huge thank you to Beard Construction for doing this garden for these staff and for their support."
The transformed garden exemplifies more than just a physical improvement; it represents a meaningful investment in the wellbeing of the staff. This dedicated space now allows the Emergency Department team to reflect, rest, and recover amidst their work, ensuring they have the opportunity to take a moment for themselves during challenging shifts.