United Utilities team up with local Bolton school to deliver accessible planters

A school in Bolton has received a much-appreciated accessible planter for children with additional needs to enjoy as part of their learning.

United Utilities has funded the design, and installation of a multi-levelled planter with MedEquip4Kids, Leon Davis and Green Fold Special School in Bolton to design and build accessible planters for the children to enjoy as part of a varied curriculum, and to learn more about recycling water.

Green Fold school is a maintained special school based in Bolton, catering for children with a wide variety of complex educational needs. Keen to expand their outdoor learning offer, the team at MedEquip4Kids applied for a community grant from United Utilities on behalf of the school to help bring those dreams to life. The planters were designed by local artist Leon Davis, and will enhance the outdoor space for children with disabilities, introducing the children to rainwater management and recycling water for use in their school, while also offering a diverse sensory experience for those with additional needs.

Katy Bevan, Operations Manager for Rainwater Management at United Utilities said: “We were delighted to work in partnership with Green Fold school, Leon Davis and MedEquip4Kids to help provide outdoor, accessible learning opportunities for students in the North West. It was a pleasure to be a part of this project, and we look forward to hearing how the children learn more about rainwater management, and see how their plants thrive with their care."

Headteacher at Green Fold School, Lisa Walker said: “We are exceptionally grateful to United Utilities, Mediequipuk and Leon on the design team for working with our Assistant Headteacher Jordanna Whittleston on funding and designing a unique gardening experience that is truly accessible to all of our children who represent those with the most complex and super special needs in the local authority. 

“The children are delighted with the sensory experience that already this resource has been able to offer and we are looking forward to caring for it as a school community now and into the future. A huge thank you to all.”

Speaking of their support of the school, Tobias Hunt, Fundraising Partnerships Officer at MedEquip4Kids said: “"MedEquip4Kids are very proud to have organised the delivery of the wonderful planter to Green Fold. This would simply not have been possible without the kind support from United Utilities and installation by Leon Davis Design. Thank you especially to Katy, Jordanna, and Leon."

The children unveiled their new accessible planter at their VE Day celebrations on 8 May, celebrating and exploring their new outdoor space with family and friends. The children also baked some scones which were judged by guests (and all found to be excellent!), as well as singing and signing ‘We’ll Meet Again’. Great fun was had by all, and thank you to Green Fold for including us in your special morning.

To find out more about United Utilities’ work on rainwater management and how to get involved,  visit: Rainwater Management | United Utilities - Corporate