Bosses at CHAS, a children’s hospice charity, expressed deep sadness after Storm Eowyn caused severe damage amounting to £60,000. The charity stated that the garden at Robin House in Balloch, West Dunbartonshire, suffered significant destruction during the storm. Robin House is one of the two crucial hospices in Scotland operated by Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS). While the main hospice buildings were fortunately undamaged by the severe 90mph winds that swept through the area last Friday, the garden at Robin House bore the brunt of the storm’s impact. As the cleanup efforts continue, it has become evident that it will take several months to restore and repair the garden.
The maintenance team leader at Robin House, Hugh Mundie, who has been working at the site for two decades, remarked that the damage caused by Storm Eowyn is the most extensive he has ever witnessed in the garden. The destructive winds uprooted mature trees, demolished fences, impaired drainage systems, and irreparably damaged the garden’s polytunnel cover and frame. The estimated cost to repair the garden is approximately £60,000, prompting the team to seek donations to support the replanting and restoration processes.
The garden at the hospice serves as a sanctuary for the children and families under CHAS’ care, providing a space for enjoyment, nature exploration, and messy play activities. Maggie Brown, a CHAS Gardener, highlighted the garden’s significance as a special place that holds precious memories for families and offers a tranquil retreat for parents, siblings, and loved ones. CHAS Medical Director, Annabel Howell, expressed deep sorrow over the damage to the garden, emphasizing its vital role in providing care and solace to the children and their families. Howell underlined the importance of fundraising to support the repairs and reiterated the charity’s commitment to ensuring that families receive the necessary care despite the challenges posed by the storm’s aftermath.
In conclusion, the unexpected devastation caused by Storm Eowyn at the Robin House garden has shed light on the indispensable role of such spaces in providing comfort and respite to families facing challenging circumstances. The resilience and determination of the CHAS team to restore the garden underscore the unwavering commitment to supporting children with life-limiting conditions and their families during difficult times. The call for donations reflects the community’s solidarity in helping CHAS continue its essential work in providing care and compassion to those in need.