Haven pond restored and restocked for new lease of lif

There’s a new sense of calm and quiet excitement at New Hope’s Haven drop-in centre thanks to newcomers who have taken up residence - in the garden pond.

The newcomers are a school of 10 hardy red goldfish. They are shy and small at the moment, but their presence has already made a big impact.

In preparation for their arrival, the pond was tidied and replanted and had a pump and filtration system fitted.

The mission was to enhance the psychologically informed environment, so it would appeal to all the senses. Overgrown pond plants were cut back and new greenery was introduced, including ferns to go alongside the aromatic herbs such as rosemary, curry plants, lavender, lemon balm, sage and mint, to create a natural, welcoming habitat. What was once an underused corner of the garden has been transformed into a peaceful spot where people experiencing homelessness can pause, reflect, and connect with nature.

Now, with the addition of the fish, the pond has truly sprung into life. For those who have experienced homelessness or instability, moments of calm and connection can be rare. Spending time beside the water and watching the fish swim freely, offers just that.

Research has long shown that interacting with nature and animals can have powerful therapeutic benefits, helping to reduce stress, ease anxiety, and improve overall wellbeing. At New Hope, these small but meaningful experiences form an important part of helping people rebuild their confidence and sense of belonging.

Haven volunteers John and Alison Carr and Cultivate, New Hope’s horticultural and wellbeing service, will continue to maintain the pond and gardens throughout the year, ensuring the Haven remains a warm, welcoming environment. And, so far so good. The newly introduced fish seem to be thriving, as does the chatter from curious visitors around the pond.  

Cultivate’s Ian Bond is excited by the metamorphosis. He said: “It’s becoming quite a talking point. It’s opening up positive pockets of memory for many of our service users. It’s a place where they can relax and let the barriers down. It gives them respite and enables them to put their problems aside for a while.”

But the pond project is far from over. There’s the daily feeding programme to consider and it will require a weekly maintenance and cleaning regime. Then, next spring, Ian hopes to introduce more fish and a new fountain so the sound of trickling water will add to the all-round sensory experience.

In the meantime, the team are looking for a benefactor to donate the fountain and fish feed. Apart from the knowledge that these donations will help make a difference to people’s lives, if someone does come forward, they may even get a fish named after them! If you would like to support the Haven pond project email fansell@newhope.org.uk.