Brighterway’s Living Memory Trees Grow a Legacy Through Healing Spaces
Brighterway’s Living Memory tree planting initiative launched at Tatchbury Mount as part of its commitment to enhancing NHS green spaces and promoting emotional wellbeing.
In partnership with the Hampshire Forest Partnership, 20 trees – such as Lime, Rowan, Indian Horse Chestnut, Hawthorn, and sturdy Elms – have been planted to help restore lost woodland and create a peaceful, natural environment for all who visit or work at the site.
The Living Memory tree effort supports the wider goal of planting one million trees across Hampshire by 2050, and directly contributes to the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust’s Green Plan for environmental sustainability.
Honour a Loved One with a Tree
You can support this fantastic campaign by adopting a tree in memory of someone special. Each adopted tree includes a unique identity tag and may include a custom Memory Plaque. Think of the trees as living tributes that will grow into lasting symbols of remembrance and renewal.
Suggested donation: £150 (includes tree and plaque – subject to confirmation).
To enquire or register your interest, please email phil.pride@southernhealth.nhs.uk.
Greener Spaces for Better Well-being
While the initiative is about environmental stewardship, it’s also intended to improve spaces for healing and recovery. By planting these trees, outdoor areas at NHS sites are being revitalised to provide tranquil, therapeutic environments that support patient recovery, staff morale, and biodiversity.
“Transforming our outdoor areas into beautiful, calming spaces is a vital part of supporting mental health,” says Samuel Ojo, Modern Matron at Southfields. “Many service users benefit from time in nature, and these changes are making a real difference.”
As the trees take root and grow, they’ll offer shade, beauty, and a sense of connection – creating a green legacy that benefits generations to come.
In the words of Julia Forder, Site Manager at Tatchbury Mount: “While many of us may not be here to see these trees reach full maturity, it’s rewarding to know we’ve contributed to something that will benefit future generations. Our buildings are named after trees, so this project is deeply connected to the site’s history. Seeing these trees grow will be a legacy we can all be proud of.”
