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At 82 years old, Margaret Hodgson is much more than a resident of BCOP’s Harvey Court – she’s a gardener, a community-builder, and a beacon of positivity. For the past 22 years, Margaret has called Harvey Court home, and for nearly 16 of those, she has been the driving force behind its community garden – a once-empty space now overflowing with colour, companionship and care.
“There were no flowers when we started,” Margaret reflects. “So we bought plants and flowers and started planting them. I just like it – wherever I go, I’m drawn to gardens. It’s what keeps me going.”
What began as a simple wish to brighten her surroundings has flourished into a place of beauty and belonging – thanks entirely to Margaret’s vision, energy, and trusty set of gardening tools.
Although BCOP has a wonderful gardener, Daren, Margaret took the initiative years ago to ask if she could personally care for the garden. With his full support, she set to work – and soon enlisted the help of two fellow residents: Violet, aged 92, and another Margaret, aged 85. Together, this green-fingered trio have turned the garden into a shared haven for relaxation and friendship.
“We planted the garden together and we do our best to keep it well taken care of,” Margaret smiles.
It’s a story rooted in legacy – gardening runs in Margaret’s family. Her father was a gardener too, and she’s kept the tradition alive with great pride. But beyond the petals and pruning shears lies a deeper truth: gardening is more than a hobby. It’s a powerful way to stay physically active, mentally sharp, and socially connected in later life.
Research consistently shows that gardening can improve quality of life for older people. According to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), gardening helps:
Boost mobility and maintain strength and flexibility
Reduce stress and promote mental wellbeing
Encourage social interaction, reducing feelings of isolation
Provide a sense of purpose and daily routine
In Margaret’s case, the garden has helped keep her body strong and her heart in good shape – quite literally.
“The garden keeps me fit,” she says. “I spend most of my time there, especially in the summer. We spend long hours working in the garden – and I love every minute of it.”
Her GP agrees – at a recent visit, Margaret was told her heart was strong, and that keeping active in the garden is helping her stay healthy.
Margaret’s story is living proof that later life can still be full of energy, creativity, and connection. She hasn’t just grown a garden – she’s grown a legacy of joy, resilience and community spirit.
At BCOP, we are immensely proud of Margaret and her gardening companions. Their story shows how empowering older people to follow their passions can enrich entire communities – flower by flower, and smile by smile.
To Margaret, Violet and Margaret – thank you for making Harvey Court bloom.
Whether your hobby is gardening, crafting or simply enjoying a peaceful routine, our sheltered housing schemes help older people live the best version of their later life. BCOP offers support when it’s needed, and freedom when it matters most.
We welcome new housing applications from from people aged 60+ (or from 55 if you have a disability). You can find our application form here
You can read more about the benefits of gardening and why it makes us feel better on the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) website