Publish date: 2 October 2023

DHU Healthcare has handed over a cheque for more than £10,000, raising money whilst protecting its own colleagues from seasonal flu.

The not-for-profit, Community Interest Company, that provides NHS services is just about to start this year’s staff vaccination programme and is kicking it off by handing over £10,910 to Derbyshire MIND that was raised during last year’s campaign.

As part of DHU’s commitment to serving local communities, the organisation chose the local charity after pledging to donate £10 for every colleague vaccinated against seasonal flu and recently had the pleasure of joining 'Mindspace,' a wellbeing walking group orchestrated by Derbyshire MIND to support the community.

Sonia Gale, DHU Healthcare’s Health, Wellbeing & Diversity Lead, said: “Meeting a group like this in action really brings to life the value of our charitable donations. Something as simple as getting your annual flu vaccination can make a huge difference to others in the community – just as I’ve seen today. We pride ourselves on doing everything we can to keep our patients safe and the annual vaccination remains the best way to prevent the spread of seasonal flu.”

'Mindspace' serves as a warm and welcoming sanctuary for individuals to come together, engage in meaningful conversations, and embrace the outdoors. Getting out and about and meeting people is a wonderful way of improving both your physical and mental health and wellbeing, something DHU Healthcare takes very seriously for both its patients and colleagues

Mitchell is Marketing and Fundraising Co-Ordinator at Derbyshire Mind, she added: "The fortnightly Mindspace walks are an opportunity for everyone to come along and be heard. We call it a 'walk/talk' group, but you can be as active or as quiet as you like, whatever is comfortable for you.

“Our whole ethos is to listen and not fix. People can share anything they like with us and there is no judgment. Sometimes just being out in nature and the fresh air can be therapeutic and the first step to getting out and connecting with the community, particularly if you feel isolated. We have some real regulars now who have steadily opened up and have grown more confident as the sessions have gone along.”

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This welcoming collaboration perfectly represents our values and commitment as a social enterprise and another fantastic partnership with a like-minded charity that helps to make a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.

Thanking DHU for the donation, Laura said: "This generous donation from DHU Healthcare is a testament to their commitment to the well-being of our community. It will enable us to continue providing essential support and services to those who need it most. We are deeply grateful for their support."

If you wish to learn more about the services Derbyshire MIND have to offer, visit their website here.

Pictured l-r: Stuart Dare, Derbyshire MIND Wellbeing Coach, Laura Mitchell, Derbyshire MIND Marketing and Fundraising Coordinator, Sonia Gale DHU Healthcare, Wellbeing & Diversity Lead and Kristena Lyew DHU Healthcare, HR Apprentice

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