Lorna’s story: a garden sanctuary
Lorna cares for her son, who is currently transitioning into adult support services. She is also supporting her father, who is infirm and lives with several health conditions that require extra help. Balancing these caring responsibilities left Lorna feeling exhausted and overwhelmed, and she began to experience health issues of her own. Travelling and spending time away from home became increasingly difficult.
Lorna believed that short breaks were only available as overnight stays away from home. After discussing her situation with a support worker, she was pleased to learn that taking a break doesn’t always mean leaving home - it can be something that happens within your own space, in a way that suits you.
Using a Time to Live microgrant, Lorna chose to transform her garden into a peaceful retreat. She invested in new garden furniture and created a dedicated seating area where she could enjoy her flowers, fresh air, and some much-needed peace and quiet.
“I was able to create a haven, which means I can read or just have a coffee and relax at times that suit me. Having this nice garden space meant that I could gather my thoughts, relax, and read a book, without having to leave my home.”
This simple but meaningful change has given Lorna ongoing opportunities to pause, reflect, and care for her own wellbeing alongside her caring role.
Find out more about Time to Live here.
Lorna said:
“The impact of the garden goes beyond a one-off break as I can recharge, rest, and relax whenever I can. The break is no longer a single moment - it’s something I can return to as and when I need it. The grant has ensured I can do this in comfort.”