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Every day, we fund simple but powerful projects that improve the lives of CNWL patients. From transforming tired outdoor spaces into healing gardens, to creating sensory soothe bags for new mums, we provide the extras that support recovery, dignity, and hope — beyond what the NHS alone can offer.

Harrow Camhs Mural Complete Portrait Corridor

Thanks to your support, a vibrant new mural was unveiled at CNWL’s Harrow Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) in September 2025 transforming the clinic into a warm, welcoming, and inspiring space for young people, families, and staff.

The mural was a true community effort, with both young people and staff working together to design and paint a piece that reflects creativity and resilience. The artwork captures themes of hope, growth and connection - symbolising the journey many young people take towards recovery and wellbeing.

Before the project began, many young people described the clinic environment as feeling clinical and empty.” They hoped that a mural could make the space more welcoming and help reduce anxieties about coming to appointments.

Once completed, the transformation was immediately felt. When asked to describe how the mural made them feel in one word, young people responded with: relaxed, welcomed, tranquil, and peaceful.

Read the full story

It uplifts you the moment you enter the building and puts a smile on your face. A lovely way to start the day.

— Harrow CAMHS staff member
St Charles In Patient Gym 3

St Charles mental health unit gyms

It’s been known that fitness can be beneficial for mental health and wellbeing. That’s why we helped to fund six fully equipped gyms across six mental health inpatient units at St Charles Hospital, creating new spaces where patients can move, recover, and thrive.

This exciting expansion builds on the success of a personalised physical health programme piloted on Nile Ward back in 2018. Working closely with a collaborative team, the pilot saw incredible results:

  • A 51% reduction in incidents of violence over two years

  • A 13% drop in significant weight gain among patients

"Our six inpatient unit gyms at St Charles have greatly improved patient outcomes and supported over 1,000 sessions a year."

— Matt, Mental Health Nurse and Fitness Instructor
Rosedale Court Garden Table And Chairs Area

A garden transformation at Rosedale Court

We proudly funded the transformation of the neglected outdoor space at Rosedale Court, an inpatient rehabilitation unit supporting people on their journey to recovery and independence.

During the pandemic, it became clear just how vital outdoor space is for wellbeing. What was once an underused area has now blossomed into a vibrant, green sanctuary—designed to support physical health, mental wellbeing, skill-building, and relaxation.

Today, the garden is more than just a space to sit. It’s:

  • A social hub for residents to connect

  • A therapeutic environment for growing vegetables

  • A calm corner for reflection and rest

Looking ahead, the team is preparing a volunteering role to help care for and sustain the garden making sure it continues to support residents for years to come.

"Myself and the other 20 patients feel blessed to have been admitted into Rosedale Court to aid our recovery. Rosedale creates an environment where patients feel understood, valued and supported."

— Dawn, Resident at Rosedale Court
Collingham Playground

Children’s play equipment at Collingham CAMHS

Every child deserves a safe and stimulating place to play - especially those receiving inpatient mental health care. A £2,500 grant from CNWL NHS Health Charity funded new toys and equipment for the playground area at Collingham CAMHS, creating a more inviting space for children.

Collingham CAMHS is a CNWL NHS inpatient care team providing mental and emotional health services to children under the age of 13, their families and carers. Children take part in a variety of therapeutic activities and attend school at Collingham, whilst parents attend family therapy sessions and can access a number of support groups.

Previously, the playground area had a limited range of toys and activities to engage and stimulate the children. Those that did exist were in a poor state of repair.

After a new, soft and colourful compound surface was placed, funding for the equipment included:

  • A basketball hoop

  • Table tennis tables

  • Wall-mounted magnetic games like snakes and ladders and four-in-a-row

  • A football target and trampoline

  • Chalkboards and a variety of sensory toys

These additions have turned the playground into a safe and enriching environment.

Milton Keynes Soothe Bags

Sensory Soothe bags for service users at Milton Keynes Perinatal Mental Health Service

CNWL NHS Health Charity funded sensory soothe bags for new and expecting mums at the Milton Keynes Perinatal Mental Health Service, which provides treatment and support for pregnant and post-natal women experiencing mental health difficulties.

During the pandemic, anxiety among women using the service rose significantly. In response, the team came up with the idea to provide soothing tools to help women manage difficult emotions and feel supported on their recovery journey.

Filled with comforting items like hot chocolate, bath salts, and other sensory treats, the bags were designed to help ease anxiety, stress, and depression.

More than just a gift, these bags became a trusted resource — something women could adapt and use throughout their recovery journey and again at times of possible relapse. Highlight cost impact (if known). E.g. Just £25 can fund a sensory soothe bag for a new mum struggling with postnatal mental health.

"That little soothing bag made me feel really good. It put a smile on my face. Thank you."

— Service User

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