The founded of Horatio’s Garden has been presented with a prestigious medal by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS)
Dr Olivia Chapple, founder and Chair of Trustees at Horatio’s Garden, was presented with the Elizabeth Medal of Honour on May 20.
The medal is the highest RHS honour for UK non-horticulturalists that have significantly impacted the advancement of the science, art or practice of horticulture for the benefit of all generations and the environment.
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She said: “When we started twelve years ago there was such little recognition of how important gardens are for rehabilitation. But today the effect of green spaces on how people can begin to come to terms with life changing events is well documented.
“I’m so proud that Horatio recognised the need for spaces for people with spinal injuries and their families and also staff – this award is really in recognition of that vision and how we have grown today to deliver seven groundbreaking extraordinary gardens with four more to come.”
The medal was established in 2023 in remembrance of Queen Elizabeth II, and Olivia received the award from Keith Weed, President of the RHS at a ceremony at RHS Chelsea Flower Show,
RHS vice president, Horatio’s Garden Scotland designer and Horatio’s Garden trustee James Alexander-Sinclair said: “Seldom has an award been more richly deserved than the EMH given to Olivia Chapple by the RHS. She is an indefatigable champion for the power of gardens.
“Her extraordinary leadership and inspiration in creating gardens for those affected by spinal injury has brought light and joy into the lives of thousands of people - patients, families, staff and visitors. Many, many congratulations.”
Ambassador of Horatio’s Garden and writer for the Times Melanie Reid added: “It’s hard to overstate what Olivia Chapple has done for the physical and mental wellbeing of people traumatised by spinal injury. Horatio’s Gardens at the UK’s spinal units are beautiful green sanctuaries where patients and their families can find peace, privacy and healing.
“Nor should we forget that this extraordinary achievement was born from Olivia’s own tragedy in losing her son.”
The charity was set up in memory of Olivia’s son, Horatio Chapple, who died during an expedition to Svalbard in 2011, when he was 17.
Horatio’s Garden has now started work on its eighth garden at The Princess Royal Spinal Injuries Centre at Northern General Hospital in Sheffield, one year since it began its life as the "Best in Show" winning garden at RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
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