We invest in new ideas and community-led projects that promote healthier, more fulfilled lives.
Riverside Rangers Football Team
With funding from CNWL NHS Health Charity in 2024, a new and exciting chapter began for service users in Hillingdon’s mental health services - the launch of the Riverside Rangers Football Team.
The Rangers, which consist of a mixed team and a women’s team train every Tuesday at Brunel University and play monthly matches and tournaments in the North West London Mental Health League, which is fully affiliated with Middlesex FA.
This initiative isn’t just about sport – it's about building a sense of community and fitness, which can help improve mental wellbeing.
“We have already seen the development of new friendships and an incredible movement in our players’ confidence and fitness. We are looking to develop and grow the club and welcoming of new players”
— Rachel Cumming, Physical Health Lead Nurse in Hillingdon
CNWL Arts in Health and the Royal Ballet and Opera Exchange Programme
We supported an innovative arts-led community project, which explored the impact of dance, creativity and movement on mental health and wellbeing.
In a unique collaboration between CNWL Arts in Health and the Royal Ballet and Opera (RBO) Creative Exchange, individuals receiving care through CNWL’s Community Mental Health Hubs met weekly in a West End studio - discovering confidence, self-expression, and joy through dance.
This 12-week programme ran from 1 November 2024 to 31 January 2025. Each session represented a safe, creative space for participants with mental health conditions to express themselves.
The project had a huge impact and ended with a special performance inspired by The Royal Ballet’s production of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland at the Royal Opera House.
“It’s been a real confidence builder. I’ve made some good friends—which is the most important thing.”
— Lucas, Participant