A new community mental health garden offering a place for quiet time and reflection surrounded by nature has opened on a popular Haughton Green housing estate.

The new space outside the Oasis Community Resource Centre in Tatton Road includes plants and flowers which appeal to the five senses, as well as two seating areas.

One of the benches is dedicated to the memory of Stephen Shaw, an estates officer for Irwell Valley Homes – which owns and manages around 900 homes on the estate – who sadly died last year.

His wife Marion cut the ribbon to officially open the garden during the same month Irwell Valley Homes celebrates its 50th birthday.

The not-for-profit social housing provider started out with just nine homes in Salford and now supports more than 20,000 customers across Greater Manchester.

During their 50th anniversary year, they are hosting a series of events and celebrations with customers, with a big focus on green spaces and community areas.

Marion said: “It’s very touching to see this bench dedicated to Stephen’s memory.

“He loved working on the Haughton Green estate – it was his baby and he liked to see the place looking pristine. It will be so nice to have this special place to come to and remember him. I hope others from the community he loved so much will enjoy it too.”

Ceris Esplen, Executive Director for Customers at Irwell Valley Homes, said: “We know how important green spaces are to our customers so we’re delighted to be launching this beautiful new garden which we hope will become a well-loved and well-used community asset.

“It was an honour to welcome Marion to officially open the garden. Stephen served the estate with such commitment for more than 15 years, so it’s very fitting to have something here which is a lasting tribute to his service and dedication.

“Lots of things have changed in the 50 years since we were founded but our core purpose remains the same – to provide safe, affordable and quality homes and services which enable people to live well. We hope this new garden will support our ongoing efforts to deliver this in Haughton Green.”

Steven Brown, managing director at John Southworth Builders who donated their time, skills and materials to transform the space - after working with Irwell Valley Homes to deliver new affordable homes nearby in recent months - said: “The garden project fits perfectly within our company’s goals to make a real difference within the community and leave a positive impact in the area.”

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