Bierley pop upService users at a mental health hospital in West Yorkshire enjoyed a new retail sensation recently thanks to a collaboration between Cygnet Health Care and Asda.
 
Working in conjunction with their local branch of the supermarket chain, staff at Cygnet Hospital Bierley organised a ‘pop-up shop’ for service users to give those who are not able to go on community leave the opportunity to do their own shopping.
 
Staff from Asda’s clothing line, George, brought a range of sports and footwear to the hospital, including tracksuits, trainers and swimming costumes. Each ward was allocated a slot in which to visit the ‘shop’ and choose items, with hospital staff on hand to help with arranging payments.

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Mannie Dhanjal, therapy manager at Cygnet Hospital Bierley, said: “It has been great to work with such a supportive local employer and to tackle some of the stigma surrounding mental health.
 
“I know that Asda were really keen to come and be part of this and are very motivated to continue to work with us in partnership on future projects."

The sporting theme was particularly relevant as service users had several activities planned for their participation in Sport Relief last month, which helped raise funds for the hospital's work.
 
Cygnet Hospital Bierley is part Cygnet Health Care, an outsourcing provider to the NHS intensive care mental health services.