Grimsby hospital set to open sensory garden thanks to community fundraising
New outdoor space offers play and relaxation for young patients
On Thursday, 17th September 2026, the Child Development Centre (CDC) at Grimsby's Diana, Princess of Wales Hospital will officially open its transformed outdoor play and sensory garden.
This initiative, made possible by a remarkable community fundraising campaign, accumulated over £25,000 to develop the previously unused space into a welcoming environment where children and families can play and relax during outpatient visits.
Facilitated by The Health Tree Foundation, NLaG's charity successfully acquired the necessary funding through diverse contributions, including donations from local businesses, community events, and grants. Among the supporters, Winner Winner Chicken Dinner stood out with a generous donation of £15,000.
Additional fundraising efforts consisted of skydives, raffles, cake sales, and various charity events, culminating in a thoughtfully designed garden incorporating sensory elements and outdoor play features.
The garden, complete with new flooring, seating, and wooden play areas, is tailored to the needs of children, particularly enhancing the waiting experience for those attending outpatient appointments.
Gemma Fleet, who co-runs Winner Winner Chicken Dinner with her husband Sonny, emphasised its impact: “I used to work at Grimsby hospital on the Rainforest Ward, so I know first-hand how important things like this are to the children who have to come into hospital. This will make a real difference to the children, and we’re delighted to be involved.”
Jordana Snowden, a team leader in children's outpatients, expressed the significance of the project: “We’ve been fundraising to transform the CDC garden for years. The children can now come outside and play while waiting for appointments. We have focused on sensory features because many of the children who visit us benefit from that type of environment. Everybody has contributed and every penny has counted.”
Newby Leisure executed the garden works, ensuring the creation of a vibrant space promising long-lasting support for children and families.