Freedom from Torture garden- RHS Chelsea Flower Show

'The Freedom from Torture Garden: A Sanctuary for Survivors is a place of sanctuary, of peace and hope where horticultural therapy calms, heals and restores survivors of torture on their journey to recovery.

Designed to be a curvaceous and immersive garden, where the visitor can engage in therapy one-to-one, with family, or in a group. The communal bread oven brings survivors together to share stories and build new friendships.

Sculptural streams of willow divide the space, enwrap the visitor and provide a raised Sky Nest as a place of sanctuary. A sinuous water rill offers both irrigation for the plants and restorative relaxation.  

Naturalistic planting stimulates happier memories of home and edible produce nourishes both body and soul. These plants too are survivors in hostile environments. 

The Freedom from Torture Garden is a place to garden. To feel safe. A place to grow again.

After the show the garden will be relocated to Freedom From Torture’s main support centre in Finsbury Park, north London, where it will be used by survivors and their families as a healing and teaching garden.'

Julia Boulton CEO and Beth’s Granddaughter

'Growing for an RHS Chelsea show garden is a huge commitment for us and one that we don’t take lightly. It is crucial for us to work with designers who love plants, are sensitive to the plants needs and realistic about what we can do. We don’t have heated or refrigerated areas and Emma and John are mindful of that - so you won’t be getting autumn flowering plants in May.'

Emily Allard – trained by Beth Chatto, is leading the propagation and care of the plants.

'I’m so excited to get to show the quality and range of our special plants here and although I haven’t previously managed a project of this size, I have been gaining valuable experience by propagating part of Carol Klein’s garden at RHS Hampton Court Flower Show.'

Over the next six months, we look forward to sharing our journey with you.