ACCESSIBLE outdoor spaces in community hospitals and HSE-funded day care centres are not a luxury but an essential, according to Social Democrats Councillor Ann Bambury.

She raised a motion concerning outdoor recreational spaces at last week’s meeting of the Regional Health Forum South West, held in County Hall, and highlighted the need for further development in Bandon, particularly within day care services. Cllr Bambury called on HSE South West to undertake a comprehensive review of all community hospital settings and HSE-funded day care centres within its remit to ensure that accessible, safe and meaningful outdoor recreational facilities are available for residents and service users.

As part of her motion she also asked that the HSE ensures that future refurbishment or development of community hospitals and HSE-funded day care centres incorporates high-quality outdoor spaces as a core component of care and service delivery. She also suggested that the creation and enhancement of outdoors spaces presents a valuable opportunity to foster intergenerational connection within our communities.

‘There is something profoundly human about the outdoors with the sun on your face and the feel of fresh air. Yet for many elderly people, especially those in long stay care, these simple experiences become difficult to access. Mobility challenges, illness or transitions into residential and day services can place nature just out of reach,’ said Cllr Bambury.

‘Accessible outdoor spaces in community hospitals are not a luxury, they are essential. Evidence shows that time spent outdoors improves mood, reduces stress, supports mental health and enhances overall well-being. It also restores a sense of dignity, independence and connection.’

Cllr Bambury added that by involving local schools, Tidy Towns groups and community organisations, these outdoors spaces can become ‘living, shared spaces where generations meet, stories are exchanged and relationships are built.

‘A child helping to plant a flower alongside an older resident is more than an activity, it is a moment of mutual learning, respect and belonging. My own grandmother at 96 lives independently and still enjoys sitting outside with a cup of tea and tending to her window boxes, simple moments that bring immense joy.’

The HSE outlined how all new Community Nursing Unit (CNU) builds incorporate safe, accessible outdoor spaces and that a dementia friendly garden has been developed at Clonakilty Community Hospital.

‘Regular capital and condition reviews continue to ensure future refurbishments prioritise outdoor environments,’ said a spokesperson.

Cllr Bambury welcomed the positive response and overall commitment by the HSE executive to her motion, as well as the engagement from the HSE South West and the improvements made across facilities in the county. Cllr Bambury said she would continue to work closely with local HSE residential and day care services in Bandon and Kinsale to ensure outdoor spaces are prioritised and delivered for the benefit of all residents and day care service users.