Caring fundraisers at Mansfield mental health hospital do their bit to help sick child
The community spirit at a Mansfield mental health hospital shone brightly as staff and service users rallied together to support a local boy with a rare muscle condition.
Cygnet Sherwood House, located on Rufford Colliery Lane, is a 30-bed specialist high-support inpatient rehabilitation (level 2) service for men with mental health needs.
And caring staff at the Cygnet Health Care service have raised nearly £100 to support a local family whose child lives with a rare muscle condition.
The close relationship between staff and the family inspired Cygnet Sherwood House to raise much-needed funds for Harry, a local child with Autosomal Recessive Spastic Ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay (ARSACS).
Hospital Manager Michelle Hallam said: “The family live in the local community so we wanted to help raise awareness for them. The funds will go towards Harry’s treatment and equipment he needs.
“Our fundraiser highlighted the creativity, kindness and togetherness at the heart of our service. Contributing to such a meaningful cause like this has really given our service users a sense of achievement and reminds them that they have something valuable to offer.”
The fundraiser included the sale of books, bakes and handmade items. Individuals supported at the Cygnet Health Care service were vital in organising, running and facilitating the fundraiser. Service users wrapped books to be sold and participated in collaborative workshops to create the homemade goods.
“Here at Cygnet Sherwood House, we want to challenge stereotypes and reduce stigma by normalising mental health conditions in society. This social connection, teamwork and community interaction is not only for a good cause but it is also crucial for the recovery of our service users,” explained Michelle.
“Giving back to others is valuable in their personal recovery journeys as it gently reintroduces social engagement whilst helping them develop practical skills. Helping others like Harry aids in supporting their wellbeing by giving our service users a sense of purpose and structure.”