Louise’s story

Louise Oliver, 59, brings her grandson Seth, 3, to Green Patch so he views everyone as an equal. Seth gets to socialise with people of all ages and backgrounds and doesn’t judge anyone as different.

“I feel at peace knowing that Seth feels safe and free at Green Patch. He can play on the basket swing under the apple tree, or on the barefoot walk and I can always see him from where I’m sitting. Seth calls the summer house the ‘castle with books’ and he enjoys having some time to himself and reading too.

I first heard about Green Patch through a friend who was volunteering. When I was working full time, I would occasionally pop down and lend a hand with gardening. However, since having my grandson, I use the space differently.

I live in Kettering, so normally I will pick up Seth from nursery and come to Green Patch, which is only a five-minute drive away. He asks to come here and asks me ‘Is it Green Patch Day?’ Seth has built so much confidence with people and now takes small risks like being in with the rabbits or chickens. He is familiar with regular users of the space but enjoys making new friends too.

We have attended some of the play schemes Green Patch organise, which are based on books. One was The Hungry Caterpillar, so they read the book to the group, and then we created a craft caterpillar using different papers, colouring pens and craft items. It is bonding time for me and my grandson, and also great for newer mums who want to feel comfortable letting their little ones explore nature.”