There's solace in a garden...

A reflection from Jane Butcher, one of the Anna Chaplaincy coordinators who recently attended the RHS Badminton Flower Show.

'Despite the intense heat, everything on display looked fresh and vibrant which was more than could be said for many of us hiding at every opportunity under the nearest tree! For me, the highlight of the show was a show garden called ‘Where Grief Grows Quiet’ It was created by Sophie Leo, who was named RHS Young Designer of the Year.

Her mum had been diagnosed with cancer. A few months before she died in 2022, she shared a sketch with Sophie of a show garden she’d drawn while Sophie was studying garden design. Inspired by her mum she says:

“She was one of those people who believed if you’re going through something, you should use it to help other people. That’s why I wanted to create a garden to help people experiencing grief.”

In reflecting of her own journey, she created a setting similar to the countryside walks she would take with her mum after hospital appointments. It was intended to recognise the feelings of comfort and refuge by drawing on the sheepfolds once used by shepherds in search of a place for peace, rest and protection.  

My photos don’t do it justice, but in a small area she offered a beautiful, gentle invitation for the viewer to enter into a safe space whether physically, or in their mind, to connect or maybe reconnect with their journey with grief. It was inspiring and moving in equal measure.

As I walked away, I couldn’t help but wonder if this might be something that could be created elsewhere for others to experience. My mind is still pondering, maybe yours is also.

If you have catch up TV or BBC iPlayer you may be able to see the interview with Sophie on Gardeners World Live Friday 10^th July 2026.'

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