Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) in Carlow has launched an inspiring fundraising campaign to create a sensory garden at their community centre on the Kilkenny Road.
This inclusive and therapeutic space promises to have a lasting impact on IWA members and the wider community, offering a peaceful haven to connect with nature, relax, and engage in meaningful social activities.
The planned sensory garden is the latest phase in IWA’s long-running commitment to creating inclusive, engaging outdoor spaces. It will feature accessible pathways, sensoryplants, and a calming water feature, all co-designed by the IWA’s gardening group in consultation with members and staff. Rainwater harvesting is also being explored in partnership with Anne Phelan from LAWPRO, in line with the group’s sustainable ethos.
The proposed Sensory Garden at Carlow IWA
Carlow IWA Community Centre already boasts a vibrant and productive garden with fruit trees, ornamental plants, and 17 wheelchair-accessible raised beds, supported by a dedicated horticulture tutor from Carlow Educational Training Board (ETB). What started over 15 years ago with four raised beds and a polytunnel has grown into a flourishing horticultural hub—and one of the centre’s most popular programmes.
“The garden not only provides fresh produce but also serves as a hub for learning, socialising, and wellbeing,” said Marion Dowling, Service Coordinator.
“The Sensory Garden will provide many benefits including therapeutic sensory experiences, a calm space for mindfulness and relaxation, greater connection with nature and the community, and opportunities for social interactions and group activities,” she added.
The IWA’s gardening group meets every Wednesday from 11am to 1pm and is open to both men and women year-round. Participants often speak of the powerful impact the group has on their mental health, confidence, and social connection.
Members of Carlow IWA’ Gardening Group
“The group is about more than gardening,” said IWA staff member Dolly Dunne, who coordinates the group. “It’s about creating a sense of belonging, purpose, and peace.”
With increasing demand, the centre is now considering launching a second gardening group.
Carlow IWA’s Gardening Programme has received funding assistance over the years from Carlow County Development Partnership and Carlow County Council.
In 2022, Carlow IWA was selected by MSD, Carlow as one of its supported charities under its corporate responsibility programme. In June of this year, MSD staff returned for a team-building day, helping with painting, cleaning, and gardening. The company has expressed interest in continuing to provide volunteer support in the future.
To sustain and expand this vibrant programme, Carlow IWA actively seeks funding from various sources. However, the organisation is also exploring ways to self-fund where possible, aiming to ensure the long-term viability of this much-loved initiative.
A number of fundraising events towards the creation of the Sensory Garden will take place over the coming year, kicking off with a flag day on August 16th followed by an Afternoon Tea fundraiser in September.
IWA Carlow is hoping that the public will support these and other events. In the meantime if you would like to contribute towards the creation of the sensory garden you can do so via idonate at Support IWA Carlow’s Sensory Garden on iDonate.ie
“The creation of this sensory garden is going to be a truly special resource to everyone in our centre and community. Every euro raised will go towards making this vision come to life,” said Marion.
