Essex scheme gets improved garden access | Tenant news

Even though it’s been a while since our last lockdown ended, the knock-on effect was that many Habinteg tenants across the UK feel more alone and isolated in their homes. And this was the case for many tenants at our Bramston Close scheme in Hainault, Essex.

To bring the once close-knit community back together again, our Neighbourhood team spoke to tenants about how best they could do this.

The tenants agreed – they wanted to see the gardens opened to everyone.

Opening up the garden

The scheme is fortunate to have a large communal lounge, which opens out onto a beautiful patio area and garden.

The garden is filled with lots of greenery and nature. It’s a peaceful place to sit, and a great space for tenants to get together during warm days and evenings.

However, the beautiful outdoor space was going unused by many tenants, especially those who use wheelchairs.

Improved garden access

The Neighbourhood team applied for funding from Habinteg’s Tenant Led Improvement Budget and an additional scheme improvement fund. The money was granted and the landscape garden work, and work to improve access to the garden, took place.

Now all tenants at the scheme can enjoy time in the garden, socialising and even having lunch and dinner together. Tenants who like gardening, but are unable to garden at ground level, are now able to plant, water and help maintain the accessible custom-made planters built at wheelchair level.

The scheme’s Neighbourhood Manager, Andrea Bedward, said: “I’m extremely pleased that we were granted the funding to make these changes for the tenants. I’m sure that being able to be out in the fresh air will enhance everyone’s wellbeing.

“It’s nice to see the garden being used by tenants.”

 New TV for the lounge

The Neighbourhood team were also able to use some of the money to buy a large TV for the communal lounge. The tenants gathered around it to watch the coronation of King Charles III and on many occasions the football lovers of Bramston Close can be found watching footie together.

Scheme improvements

Are there any improvements you’d like to see take place on your scheme? Speak to your Neighbourhood Co-ordinator about applying for a Tenant Led Improvement Budget to make it happen.