Everton helps bring new sensory garden to life at Centre 56 in Kirkdale

Families at Centre 56 in Kirkdale now have a peaceful new outdoor space to enjoy after Everton Ambassador Graham Stuart officially opened a beautiful sensory garden at the specialist nursery.

The new garden has transformed an ordinary outdoor area into a calming green haven for children and families who turn to Centre 56 for support, often at some of the toughest times in their lives. The Kirkdale nursery has been a lifeline for local families for more than 50 years, giving children a safe place to learn and play while helping parents and carers rebuild after experiences of domestic abuse and crisis.

Graham, who was on hand to cut the ribbon and welcome families into the garden for the first time, said he was proud to support such an important project: “as someone who was lucky enough to grow up surrounded by green spaces, I know how much of a difference a place like this can make. The garden looks fantastic and I’m sure the kids, parents and staff here will get so much out of it,” he said.

Centre 56 Sensory Garden Opening — Credit: Pictured: L-R: Claire Essame, Service Manager at Centre 56; Alex Rigby, Fundraising Officer at Centre 56; Cllr Joe Hanson, Local Ward Councillor for Kirkdale West; Graham Stuart, Everton FC Ambassador; Peter Lloyd, Designer/Managing Director for Gardens by Peter Lloyd.

Created by award-winning local landscapers Gardens by Peter Lloyd, the sensory garden was designed with wellbeing and nature in mind. Bright planting, wildflowers, herbs and wildlife-friendly features create a space that’s not just beautiful to look at but encourages calm, play and connection too.

Peter Lloyd, who designed the garden, said: “This isn’t just about how it looks — it’s about how it feels to spend time here. It’s a place to feel safe, calm and connected. I’m proud to help bring more green spaces like this to Kirkdale, which means a lot to me personally.”

The project was funded through the Burbo Bank Extension Community Fund, managed by GrantScape, and will help Centre 56 continue its mission of supporting local families with everything from specialist childcare to emotional support and counselling.

Claire Essame, Service Manager at Centre 56, said the garden is already making a big difference: “we wanted a calm, welcoming space where families can sit together, chat about what they’re going through and feel supported,” she said. “But just as importantly, we wanted somewhere that sparks curiosity and brings a bit of magic to the children’s day too.

“This garden does all that and more — it helps children learn, relax and connect with nature, and it’s already helping our families feel supported and safe. We’re so grateful to everyone who’s made it happen.”