Thomas’ Accessible Garden: A Community Effort to Support Independence

Meet 17-year-old Thomas, a nature-loving teenager from Whitstable, Kent, who thrives on staying active. Despite being a full-time wheelchair user with quadriplegic cerebral palsy, Thomas enjoys swimming, trampolining, and, most of all, spending time outdoors. His family’s recent fundraising campaign with Tree of Hope has made an incredible impact, helping to create a fully accessible garden that will enhance Thomas’ independence and well-being.

The Challenges of Accessibility

Thomas’ condition affects all four limbs, making daily activities more challenging. He is non-verbal and requires a blended smooth food diet, but his determination and love for movement shine through. One of the biggest hurdles for Thomas and his family has been finding accessible places to visit together.

His mother, Caroline, explains:
“When the children were younger, we could adapt activities easily. But as Thomas has grown, accessibility has become more of an obstacle. We often have to do things separately so our daughter doesn’t miss out, which is difficult.”

To improve Thomas' independence at home, the family moved to a chalet bungalow during lockdown, making essential modifications with the help of a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG). However, getting Thomas' equipment into the back garden remained a struggle—until their fundraising journey began.

Why an Accessible Garden Matters

For Thomas, accessing his garden is about more than just outdoor space—it’s a vital part of his therapy, mobility, and well-being. Research on Social Horticultural Therapy (SHT) highlights the physical and emotional benefits of outdoor access, something Thomas’ family knew would make a difference.

Caroline explains:
“Having direct access to the garden in his gait trainer will provide essential physio, improve muscle tone, and offer therapeutic benefits from being outdoors.”

A Community-Funded Transformation

With a £10,000 fundraising goal, the family launched their Tree of Hope campaign in September 2024. Despite never fundraising before, Caroline knew she needed to take action.

A Community-Funded Transformation

With a £10,000 fundraising goal, the family launched their Tree of Hope campaign in September 2024. Despite never fundraising before, Caroline knew she needed to take action.

The Whitstable community rallied together, and in just three and a half months, they hit their goal!

Key fundraising moments included:
A local IT company match-funding £3,400A book club donation from their annual charity fund
An anonymous £85 donation through a QR code on a Tree of Hope poster
A local building supplier donating 10 tonnes of sub-base worth nearly £500

Fundraising Tips from Caroline

For other parents considering a fundraising campaign, Caroline shares her advice:

“Go for it! Don’t be afraid to ask for help, especially if it’s your first time fundraising. Tree of Hope made everything easier.  yourself is overwhelming, but this gave our donors peace of mind. It’s not just about financial donations—consider asking local businesses for materials or services. Smaller businesses are often more willing to help than larger ones, which receive many requests.”

The Power of Social Media

Social media played a huge role in the campaign’s success. Caroline used Instagram (@carolinemumfor1) and Facebook (Caroline Mumford) to keep supporters updated, along with a YouTube video explaining the fundraising goal.

A Brighter Future for Thomas

Thanks to the generosity of their community, Thomas now has an accessible garden that will provide him with greater independence, mobility, and enjoyment for years to come.

Tree of Hope is proud to support Thomas and his family on this life-changing journey.

Follow Thomas’ Journey

Keep up with Thomas' progress on Instagram (@carolinemumfor1) and Facebook (Caroline Mumford).