The team, known as the “Kewstoke Swans”, returned to the seafront event as part of a long-standing tradition that brings together fundraising, community participation and a focus on wellbeing.
Led by Active Life Lead Sally Leddy, alongside colleagues Peter Morton and Carole Pettitt, the group was joined by additional staff members to support four service users in completing the scenic coastal route.
The participants took a steady and inclusive approach to the challenge, walking the 5K course together and positioning themselves away from the busiest crowds to ensure a calm and supportive experience. The emphasis was on participation and shared achievement rather than speed, with the entire group crossing the finish line together to collect their medals.
A Decade-Long Tradition
Cygnet Hospital Kewstoke has been taking part in Race for Life events for more than ten years, with this year’s effort continuing its commitment to supporting cancer research while promoting positive physical and mental wellbeing.
Participants arrived early to join the pre-event warm-up and soak up the atmosphere alongside hundreds of other fundraisers gathered on Weston-super-Mare beach.
Supporting Recovery Through Community Activity
Participation in external events like Race for Life continues to play a vital role in recovery journeys at Cygnet Hospital Kewstoke.
Service users consistently report that taking part provides a strong sense of purpose and motivation, alongside the chance to contribute to a cause larger than themselves. Many also value the social element – being part of a team, sharing experiences, and connecting with the wider community.
Sally explained that the event offers something unique compared to everyday activities:
“Being part of Race for Life gives service users the opportunity to do something meaningful for others. It’s not just about a walk along the beach – it’s about raising awareness, supporting a cause, and feeling part of something bigger.”
For many, the real impact comes after the event. Reflection sessions held afterwards allow participants to process the experience, reinforcing a sense of accomplishment and improving overall wellbeing.
Carole Pettit added that even small moments – such as receiving a medal – can have a powerful emotional impact. She said: “That sense of achievement at the end is huge. It’s something many of our service users don’t often get to feel, and it really does uplift them.”
Raising Awareness of Cancer and Early Detection
The Race for Life also forms part of Cygnet Hospital Kewstoke’s wider commitment to Cygnet’s year-long Cancer Awareness and Prevention campaign.
Carole said: “Cygnet recognises that people with severe mental illness, neuropsychiatric conditions and learning disabilities experience some of the greatest inequalities in cancer prevention, early detection and access to timely treatment. These inequalities are significant, especially when we consider that 1 in 2 people in the UK will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lifetime.
“Early prevention and early detection is key – they dramatically improve survival rates, reduce the need for invasive treatment and give people the best possible chance of recovery. Ensuring service users have equal access to screening, information and timely care is therefore not just important, but essential.
Cygnet’s Cancer Awareness & Prevention Campaign is designed to increase knowledge, improve early identification, and strengthen access to resources and screening opportunities across all our services. Our involvement in campaigns like this, and the support we can provide, make me proud to be a Cygnet nurse.”
Throughout April, Carole and Sally incorporated bowel cancer and testicular cancer awareness into its popular Wellbeing Wednesday drop-in sessions, and in May the focus is on bladder cancer and skin cancer. These sessions offer a relaxed environment where service users can access health education and support.
The impact of these sessions has been tangible. One service user requested and was provided with a bowel cancer screening kit. Another was supported to book a GP appointment after disclosing concerns about a testicular lump
Alongside this, the team runs a weekly Women’s Health group, helping to arrange cervical and breast cancer screenings, removing barriers and encouraging early detection.
Carole emphasised the importance of awareness. She said: “We’re not here to scare people -we’re here to educate. Awareness means people are more likely to act quickly if something changes, and early detection can save lives.”
A Shared Cause
Cancer remains a cause close to many people’s hearts, and for the Kewstoke Swans, taking part in Race for Life is about more than just physical activity.
It offers service users the chance to reflect, process personal experiences, and take positive action – whether in memory of loved ones or in support of those currently affected.
The team also highlighted the importance of community integration, with events like Race for Life helping service users feel connected beyond the hospital environment.
As the sun set on another successful event, the group returned to Kewstoke tired but proud, taking time to celebrate their achievements together. Kewstoke Swans continue to demonstrate how physical activity, community engagement and health education can work hand in hand to support recovery.
