The Downpatrick Downshire Estate garden manager has received a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King’s Birthday Honours
The South Eastern Trust is delighted to congratulate Victorian Garden Manager at the Downshire Estate, Clare McCawley, on being awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in The King’s Birthday Honours 2026 for services to healthcare, horticulture and the local community.
The prestigious honour recognises Clare’s exceptional contribution to the Downshire Estates Victorian Gardens, a unique green space that has become a sanctuary for patients, Service Users, staff and the wider community.
The garden supports health, wellbeing and recovery through nature.
The King’s Birthday Honours celebrate individuals who have made outstanding achievements and significant contributions to their communities and public service.
Clare’s award reflects decades of dedication to creating and nurturing therapeutic outdoor spaces that promote inclusion, rehabilitation and mental wellbeing.
Since joining the Trust in 1996, Clare has played a key role in developing and maintaining the Victorian Gardens, working alongside former Consultant Psychiatrist Dr Colin Patton, whose vision was to create a garden that could be enjoyed by staff, patients and the wider community.
Speaking about receiving the honour, Clare said she felt both surprised and humbled, and added: “I joined the Trust in 1996 and I have been involved with the Victorian Gardens for more than 30 years.
“I have worked in partnership with the Northern Ireland Probation Board and the GP Federation to develop and maintain this special space.
“It is wonderful to have a garden that is accessible to staff, Service Users, community groups and local schoolchildren. Seeing so many people benefit from it is incredibly rewarding.
“We know that gardening can have a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing. The gardens provide an opportunity for people to connect with nature, spend time outdoors and learn more about the services available on site.
“The Trust has created a biodiverse space that can be enjoyed by everyone, patients, staff and the wider community.”
Describing the award as “a cause for celebration”, Clare said: “We would encourage as many groups as possible to come and use the gardens.
“It is wonderful to see staff and Service Users making the most of the space and benefiting from everything it has to offer. Here’s to the next 30 years!”
South Eastern Trust Director of Mental Health, Learning Disability, Healthcare in Prison and Psychological Services, Rachel Gibbs, said she was “truly delighted” to see Clare recognised in this way.
Rachel said, “Over many years, Clare has brought warmth, commitment and quiet determination to everything she does. She has created something very special at the Downshire Estate.
“It is a place where people feel genuinely welcome, valued and included, regardless of their circumstances.
“Clare has an incredible ability to connect with people, helping them build confidence, develop new skills and feel part of something meaningful.
“The Victorian Gardens are much more than a beautiful outdoor space, they are a living example of how nature, community and compassion can come together to support health and wellbeing.
“This honour is richly deserved and reflects the lasting impact Clare has had on countless individuals, families and community groups over many years. We are immensely proud of her achievement and delighted to see her dedication recognised at a National level.”
