Everton helps open new sensory garden at Centre 56 specialist nursery

Everton ambassador, Graham Stuart, has formally opened a new sensory garden at Centre 56 in Kirkdale.

This green space will provide a welcoming open-air environment at the specialist nursery, which cares for young children and families who have experienced domestic abuse or crisis situations.

Graham was proud to cut the ribbon to mark the final transformation of the area. He was watched by delighted centre staff and parents of the affected children.

He said: “As someone who was fortunate to grow up with an abundance of green field space, I can fully appreciate how important it is to have somewhere like this as a haven.

“The new sensory garden looks magnificent. I’m sure the children, their parents and the staff here will get a huge amount of enjoyment from the calming atmosphere.”

What does the sensory garden include?

Built by Gardens by Peter Lloyd, the sensory garden was developed with the wellbeing of children and families in mind. It was carefully crafted to promote recovery, reflection and play.

The garden offers a safe, calming space featuring vibrant, pollinator-friendly planting, edible herbs, wildflower meadow and inclusive seating areas.

Peter Lloyd, designer and managing director of Gardens by Peter Lloyd, said: “This garden is more than a visual space – it’s an experience designed to help children feel safe, calm and connected. I’m delighted to have been able to help this nursery, which has such a long history and to support green spaces in Kirkdale – a community that means a great deal to me.”

The importance of Centre 56

Centre 56 has been a lifeline for families across Liverpool for over 50 years. It provides specialist childcare, emotional support, and practical help for parents, caregivers, and children escaping domestic abuse.

As a charity, it offers a safe haven and wraparound care to help families rebuild their lives with dignity and stability.

The project was made possible thanks to funding from the Burbo Bank Extension Community Fund, managed by GrantScape.

Claire Essame, service manager at Centre 56, added: “We were keen to create a calm and relaxing space where we could go with our families to chat about their experiences and the support they might need.

“At the same time, we wanted to design an environment that sparks children’s curiosity, stimulates their senses, and encourages local wildlife to flourish. This unique space not only enriches their learning opportunities but also nurtures their emotional health and wellbeing, an essential part of our mission at Centre 56.

“The garden is a wonderful addition to our centre, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone for their efforts.”