Stirling Conservatives clean up Peace of Mind Garden

Bob Dalrymple

"Stirling’s contribution to the national Social Action Day was to clean up the Peace of Mind Garden in Kings Park, near the city centre. Nearly twenty volunteers turned out to help.

"The Peace of Mind Garden was created by Breathing Space, the confidential phoneline for people experiencing depression or other mental health problems.  Unfortunately, the garden had fallen into disrepair.  Sections of it had become completely overgrown, and serious littering was also a problem. The team cleared litter and weeds from the whole garden.  The front section was then swept, and has new plants added.  The rear section, which had become completely overgrown, was strimmed and turned over.  Breathing Space plan to use this section as an area for local schoolchildren to plant flowers, and showcase their own art. It was hard work, but the team also enjoyed the day and felt a real sense of accomplishment at the end. 

"I believe that Social Action projects are a great way to demonstrate how in touch Conservatives are with their local communities. 

"I think this project was important on two levels.  Firstly, Kings Park is an important amenity.  It’s an oasis of green space in the centre of Stirling itself, and is used extensively by local residents including families with young children.  Conservative councillors in Stirling were recently instrumental in improving the play facilities there, and we believe the whole park should look as good as it can.

"Secondly, depression and similar conditions affect a large number of people.  I was delighted that we were able to help out Breathing Space, which is an organisation dedicated to giving people affected by these problems a chance to talk confidentially to experts who truly understand what they are going through.

"I am very proud of Stirling’s contribution.  I hope that local people will now be able to enjoy this beautiful garden for years to come.  We’d like to thank the Friends of Kings Park and Stirling Council for allowing us to undertake the project, and the Council for help with the initial strimming and clearing away the rubbish at the end. It was a real team effort, demonstrating the principle of shared responsibility between political parties, volunteers and the state.  We really are all in it together."