Delivering clinically integrated horticultural therapy at DMRC Stanford Hall

HighGround Horticultural Therapy planting raised beds

At a glance

  • Organisation: HighGround
  • Location: Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre, Stanford Hall
  • Type of support: Clinically integrated horticultural therapy
  • Who benefited: Serving Army personnel undergoing rehabilitation
  • ACF grant: £27,148

Through Army Central Fund funding, HighGround provides specialist horticultural therapy to serving Army personnel receiving treatment at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre (DMRC) Stanford Hall.

Delivered by trained occupational therapists, the programme forms part of the wider rehabilitation pathway for patients recovering from physical injury, neurological conditions and complex trauma. Sessions take place in purpose-designed gardens and greenhouse spaces, offering a calm, restorative environment alongside clinical treatment.

The therapy uses structured, practical activities such as planting, potting and harvesting to support recovery goals identified by referring occupational therapists. These activities help improve physical strength and dexterity, cognitive processing and confidence, while also providing opportunities for social interaction and time away from a clinical setting. Patients can take part in one-to-one or small group sessions, tailored to individual needs and stages of recovery.

By investing in non-clinical rehabilitation support, the Army Central Fund helps ensure serving Army personnel have access to a broader range of therapeutic options during their recovery journey. The programme supports both physical and emotional wellbeing, contributing to confidence, resilience and, where possible, a return to unit life following treatment.

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