The award was presented during a Surrey Lieutenancy Communities and Charities Focus Group meeting, hosted at the charity garden this month. We were delighted to be presented with the award by our special friend and Patron, Julie Llewellyn.
Michael More‑Molyneux, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey said:
This certificate is awarded to Surrey Care Trust’ s award winning Gateway Garden in recognition of its high level of community involvement. Gateway Garden’s efforts to build connections, foster relationships have created an oasis of nature allowing people to take part in nature therapy and wellbeing activities. These transform lives by helping people learn new skills and improve their health and wellbeing.
Volunteers of all ages benefit from the calming effects of gardening, art, woodworking, art and wellbeing sessions building friendships, confidence and a strong sense of belonging.
Cathy Leamon, Gateway Community Garden Manager, said:
We were surprised and absolutely delighted to receive the Lieutenancy Certificate of Appreciation, by His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey. It is such a tremendous honour to be recognised. We are more than just a green space, the garden has become a hub for mental well-being, social connection, and sustainability. The trust really has had another wonderful year, with the Gateway Community Garden project receiving multiple Gold Awards at this year’s RHS South & Southeast In Bloom. As a charity, we are passionate about the people we support, and this award highlights the garden’s invaluable role in enriching lives and fostering a greener, healthier, and more connected community. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all our staff, volunteers, and supporters for their tremendous effort, dedication, and positivity.
For more information about Surrey Care Trust’s Gateway Community Garden, or to get involved, please contact Milly O’Ryan at Gateway@surreycaretrust.org.uk
