A FORMER microbiologist who lives at Arden House Care Home in Leamington has been awarded for his work in maintaining the home’s garden and teaching visiting children all about plants.
Dr Geoff White received the ‘Gardens and Grounds Award’ at the 2024 Greensleeves Care Awards, which recognise excellence across the not-for-profit group’s care homes in England.
Chosen from nominations submitted by staff, residents and their families, Geoff’s work in the Clarendon Square home’s garden was highly praised.
He set up a trough in the garden that he uses when children, such as the grandchildren of other residents, visit the home, to teach them about plants, gardening and the science involved in helping a garden to thrive.
The 78 year-old said: “It was a complete surprise. I was invited down to London for a special awards lunch and had a lovely day. It was a really good experience for me, and to be told I won was even better. They’ve put up a note about my award on the noticeboard in the home, so I’ve had lots of compliments and kind words from the staff and my fellow residents.”
Professionally, Geoff specialised in crop diseases and led a team of researchers at Warwick’s Wellesbourne Research Station for 15 years.
He then took on a role at a Leamington community office, where people would bring in their plants and crop samples to be examined for diseases by Geoff’s team. Geoff and the team not only helped with plants, they found themselves helping people with social issues, often advising vulnerable people and directing them to relevant local services.
Arden House’s home manager, Aimee Martin, said working in the garden and using his skills and expansive knowledge had given Geoff a real focus at Arden House.
She added: “He’s out in the garden rain or shine and has really transformed it. We prioritise person-centred care at Arden House. It’s brilliant that Geoff can carry on with his passions and interests while at the home, and we’re hugely proud of his recognition.”
