As part of the visit, individuals receiving support at the 54-bed mental health hospital, on Orchard Portman, enjoyed a behind-the-scenes tour of Wordsworth Drive, the home of the Peacocks. They were given a unique opportunity to explore the stadium, walk the pitch, and experience the calm before the roar of the new season.
One patient shared: “It was exciting to walk around the stadium without fans in it, and getting a photo on the pitch was something we didn’t expect.”
Rasoul, who is currently on Sycamore Ward, an acute service, added: “I hadn’t realised how big the pitch really is, it’s amazing how the TV distorts the size. I can only imagine what the atmosphere will be like on the opening game of the season.”
Welcoming the group, Taunton Town FC CEO Karl Lindsay said: “It’s fantastic to have Cygnet as stadium sponsors for another year. This partnership continues to grow, and with the launch of the Taunton Town Women’s Team, who’ll also be playing at Wordsworth Drive, we hope to see even more patients from the hospital’s female wards enjoying the game-day experience.”
Cygnet Hospital Taunton Manager Nome Njini reflected on the partnership.
She said: “I’m so pleased we’re continuing our sponsorship for a fifth year. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see how much our patients enjoy attending matches, they often share stories with me about the games. What started as a sponsorship has grown into a true community partnership. We’ve even used the club’s facilities for team-building days, recruitment events, and our Christmas celebration. It’s become a key part of life at the hospital.”
“It genuinely feels like we’re right there in the dugout with the team, cheering them on as the 2025/26 season begins.”
Now in its fifth consecutive year, the partnership between Cygnet Hospital Taunton and Taunton Town FC continues to create meaningful opportunities for the individuals supported by Cygnet to connect with their community, experience the joy of live football, and support their local team.
Nome added: “The hospital and everybody at Cygnet extends its best wishes to Taunton Town FC for a successful and memorable season ahead.”