Staff and patients get active for Sport Relief

Staff and patients across the charity have been getting active in aid of Sport Relief.

On Wednesday, the young people at FitzRoy House – our Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service – started the day with either a mile walk around the grounds, or a jigsaw relay in the outdoor sports area.

The young people then had the opportunity to try different games and activities, including a tug of war and a penalty shootout, before an afternoon of ‘Sportball’ (a game designed and led by our Physiotherapy team).

Delicious, health snacks were also enjoyed by everyone after the mile run, all made and served by Kevin Landy, Head Chef at Fitzroy House. Staff and the young people thoroughly enjoyed tucking into hummus and vegetables, banana brownies, crispbread pizzas and spicy popcorn.

A young patient on Maple Ward really enjoyed the day. She explained: “My personal opinion on Sport Relief is that it’s actually pretty amazing in various different aspects.

“One of the main things that Sport Relief is great for is supporting charities. Not only is it something that most people can participate in, especially the fun activities such as throwing wet sponges at teachers and improvised egg and spoon races, but it is definitely an event that raises a lot for all different types of charities, including charities for mental and physical health.

“Sport Relief encourages people of all ages to engage in exercise and learn to enjoy physical activities, as sports and exercise are a naturally fun thing to participate in. I think that any form of activity is great for your body and mind, whether it’s walking, horse riding, swimming, or even playing a card game. As long as you’re moving around your body benefits from it.”

Adam Bowers, Teacher at St Andrew’s College within FtizRoy House, added: “Thank you to everyone who assisted to make the day a success and of course the young people who came along and took part. Everyone who attended had a brilliant time.”

Meanwhile, over at our Essex hospital, staff and patients enjoyed a ‘cardio challenge day’, which consisted of running, walking, cycling and rowing. The group managed to reach a distance of 78.3 miles – a fantastic achievement!

Local football team Southend United also visited Essex to deliver a day of football coaching for our patients, which was much enjoyed. To read more about our partnership with Southend United, click here.