As part of the hospice’s commitment to wellbeing initiatives, the Silent Space, located in the Fishpond Garden, gives patients chance to switch off from the outside world and encourages mindfulness and self-directed meditation. It provides space and support during emotionally challenging times, by connecting with the natural world.
The area was created in partnership with Silent Space, a charity founded by Liz Ware in 2016, which creates opportunities for quiet reflection in green places across the UK.
The idea to create a space at the hospice came from Principal Social Worker Andrew Marshall, who visited a Silent Space in Harrogate. Says Andrew: “We tried it out for ourselves, sitting still, calm and quiet and listed to nature and it was really nice. It inspired me to explore this concept further for the hospice, so I got in touch with the Liz at Silent Space and we started working on creating a space for our gardens.
The mandala artwork created by Katie Shepherd was inspired by the creativity of patients and staff in her art group
“It’s a great wellbeing tool for our patients and their families, as well as staff and volunteers. We want to say a big thank you to the team at Silent Space for guiding us through this project and we hope everyone enjoys taking a moment to let the calming sounds of nature soothe them.”
In the Silent Space, staff have installed a bespoke mandala artwork created by Creative Practitioner Katie Shepherd, who is working with the Bradford City of Culture team. The artwork was inspired by the creativity of patients, carers and staff who attended Katie’s art group in the Wellbeing Centre throughout the spring and summer of 2025.
The mandala, which originates in Hindu and Buddhist traditions, depicts the universe and can be a tool for focusing attention, meditation, prayer and relaxation. The theme for this mandala is the ‘element of fire’, representing creativity, transformation, power, courage, energy and light. People using the Silent Space in the hospice garden are encouraged to let the patterns and colours of the mandala art support their experience of spending time there.
One patient said: “The Silent Space is fantastic, what a great idea. Sitting back and relaxing, listening to the sound of the trickling water and the wind in the trees is lovely.”
The striking art installation in the garden
Amy Forrest, Healthcare Assistant at the hospice, adds: “The tranquility of the gardens and the sensory nature of the Silent Space can really help people gain a sense of calm when managing difficult feelings and emotions. Having space out to reflect and take a minute makes all the difference.”
* Visit www.silentspace.org.uk/garden/the-marie-curie-hospice-bradford/
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