The new Garden of Freedom is replacing the original children's garden and play area on the Treliske Hospital site. This garden was removed in 2020 to make way for the construction of the Tremenel Unit.

This is a quiet, safe area, away from traffic and yet only a short walk from the maternity and paediatric wards. Innovative and playful signage will direct patients and their families and carers to this new space once it opens.

The new garden, designed by local company EarthRight, has been specially created for children and their parents, families, and carers to enjoy during treatment, or whilst visiting, the Royal Cornwall Hospital. The design has had input from the Trusts specialist play team, families, and patients.

Spending time in nature leads to improvements in mental health and physical, and emotional, well-being for all people, and this new space will deliver a diverse but welcoming natural environment for children to explore.

The garden design deliberately does not incorporate the typical soft surfaces and equipment seen in schools or village play areas; instead, the design considers the accessibility and sensory needs of young people, as well as providing space for rest and reflection away from the clinical environment.

Initially, the garden will feature quiet picnic areas, some play space and stimulating sensory flower gardens. Over time, the scope of the project will be extended to include artwork; bird boxes; an insect hotel, a pergola and additional play equipment.