South Somerset Homes resident over the moon with
new garden
30 October 2006

A resident of Windermere Close sheltered housing scheme in Yeovil , which is owned and managed by South Somerset Homes, is thrilled with the recent improvement works that have been carried out to her garden.

Olivia Rawlings, who is 87 years old, has lived at the scheme for fourteen years, moving to her current accommodation six years ago because it was in a more convenient position. When Olivia initially moved she had a back garden that was overgrown and completely covered in grass with a narrow, paved communal path at the end. However, with the help of friends and members of Yeovil L ETS (Local Exchange Trading System, which is a network of people offering skills, talents, services, goods and mutual support through a cash-free trading system), her plans for a beautiful garden began to evolve.

Pictured here is Olivia in her new garden

Olivia said, “It has taken six years, and for the last four years my mobility has been reduced because I have Parkinson’s Disease, but I now manage one-handed jobs like dead heading, planting seeds in the greenhouse and taking cuttings.

The added improvement has been the transformation of the small path at the end of the garden, which is now a smooth wide path where Olivia can get round the garden easily with a walking aid.

Olivia added, “Having a garden to look after was always something that I have looked forward to, and the chance to sit and enjoy the flowers makes all the difference to my life. I am absolutely thrilled with my new garden; it has made such a difference to me and I just love it.”

To find out more about Yeovil LETS or to become a member please visit their website www.core-energy.co.uk/yeolets.htm or phone the Yeovil Co-ordinator on 01935 83201. Joining forms are also available from Sue at Ceres Health Food store, situated 9-11 Princes Street in Yeovil.

Pictured on the left is Olivia’s garden before the remedial works took place and on the right is her new garden