The Cygnet Challenge, which ran from 4 to 18 August, brought together colleagues and service users from across the leading health and social care provider’s network as part of a fundraising campaign for Sport in Mind.
Sport in Mind is a charity that uses physical activity to support people experiencing mental health challenges.
This year’s challenge saw teams from six services collectively raise £1,395 for the charity – more than doubling the funds raised by the Active Lives and Fitness Network in 2024.
The teams
Team Southside Squad
Team Southside Squad overcame their injuries and went above and beyond their target of 500 miles, totalling a massive 1,131 miles and £300 fundraised.
Team Beeches
Team Beeches walked, ran, cycled and used their movement group as a way to get more active, racking up more than 402 miles and raising the highest amount of £550.
Team Cygnet Lodge Woking
Team Cygnet Lodge Woking clocked an impressive 929.29 miles with lots of group walks and dedication from staff, even on annual leave, raising £110.
Team Cygnet Bury Dunes
Team Cygnet Bury Dunes easily passed the 137-mile mark with a combination of walking groups, gym sessions and a simple walk around the garden.
Team Cygnet Hospital Kewstoke
Team Cygnet Hospital Kewstoke smashed their original goal of 250 miles and challenged themselves to 645.89 miles, raising £282.
Team Cygnet Hospital Kidsgrove
Team Cygnet Hospital Kidsgrove took a triathlon approach, swimming, running and cycling a total of 315.29 miles raising £143.
The challenge highlights the crucial link between physical and mental health, a value shared by both Cygnet Health Care and Sport in Mind. The charity delivers community-based and hospital outreach programmes that encourage people to get active, reduce social isolation, and take positive steps in their recovery journey.
Team Beeches, who raised the most funds, are using their prize money to purchase a football target net and footballs as the individuals they support and staff are keen to keep the enthusiasm for being active going.
The fundraising success demonstrates the commitment across Cygnet’s services to supporting mental health awareness whilst bringing teams together through physical activity and community spirit.