Community Support Helps Roses Bloom in Colchester Hospital Wellbeing Garden

Roses and rose arches have been planted in the Colchester Hospital Wellbeing Garden following a community planting event held on Saturday 24 January 2026. The planting marks another important milestone in the ongoing development of the garden, which has been shaped through collaboration between hospital teams, volunteers and local community groups. 

The Colchester Hospital Wellbeing Garden was created with the aim of providing NHS staff, patients and visitors with a calm and restorative space in which to rest, reflect and recharge. Designed as a welcoming environment for all, the garden is increasingly becoming a vital community hub, offering opportunities for connection, wellbeing activities and moments of quiet respite for those working in or visiting the hospital. 

The addition of the roses and arches was made possible through the collective efforts and generosity of a number of local organisations and supporters. Funding and support were provided by members of The Rotary Club of Colchester Forum and The Rotary Club of Colchester Camulos, alongside a Rotary donor. Further contributions came from funds raised through the garden volunteers’ plant sale, as well as support from Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity, local Cub Scouts and the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). 

The planting day brought together volunteers and supporters who worked alongside one another to help bring the latest phase of the garden to life. 

Peter Herring from the Rotary Club of Colchester Camulos said: “Last July, Alison invited local Rotary clubs to visit the Wellbeing Garden at Colchester Hospital, where we learned that the rose arches had been omitted from the original design. After a wonderful evening in the garden, we were delighted to come together and help. With support from Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity, we were able to fund the arches, and it’s a real pleasure to return today to see the structures in place and plant the roses in this beautiful space.” 

As the roses establish and bloom in the months ahead, they will provide colour, fragrance and a symbol of the community spirit that has helped shape the Colchester Hospital Wellbeing Garden into what it is to date. The garden will continue to grow and evolve, supported by local partners and volunteers who are committed to creating a space that benefits both the hospital and the wider community.