Staff and patients at a mental health hospital in Woking recently hosted a day of fun and community spirit to raise much-needed funds for a children’s charity.

Knaphill-based Cygnet Lodge Woking is a 31-bed hospital providing acute and high support inpatient rehabilitation (level 2) services for men with mental health needs.

The Cygnet Health Care staff and service users united for its charitable summer fair, raising over £100 for Shooting Star Children’s Hospices.

The charity cares for babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions and provides support to their families across Surrey and West London.

“It provides invaluable care and support and helps families navigate challenging circumstances. We felt it was an important cause that deserved our support,” said Richa Singh, occupational therapist at Cygnet Lodge Woking.

“The event was a fantastic success, there was an enjoyable and inclusive atmosphere.”

Organised by the occupational therapy team and activity coordinator at Cygnet Health Care, there was a variety of fun activities and a raffle.

A temporary tattoo and face painting station proved popular, and a snack stall kept donations rolling in.

Volunteers from Shooting Star Children’s Hospice also attended to help raise awareness of the charity’s work.

Richa continued: “It was wonderful to see so many people coming together and supporting the fundraiser, and the enthusiasm and generosity shown by everyone contributed to the event's success. Every contribution, no matter how small, helped.

“Our fundraiser was not only an opportunity to support an important charitable cause but also a chance to strengthen our ward community. It showed the value of working together and provided the individuals we support with the chance to participate in a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

“We would like to thank everyone who attended, donated and helped organise the event. We are proud to have contributed to the important work carried out by Shooting Star Children's Hospices.”