Mental health care centre residents benefit from Cashel pitch and putt fundraiser

Activities at Haywood Lodge, Clonmel were the beneficiaries of a recent fundraiser played on the Larkspur Pitch and Putt Club in Cashel, Co. Tipperary.

The monies raised will help staff in the HSE’s residential mental health care centre to continue providing activities, supports and other additional resources that enhance the quality of life for its residents.

Opened in 2012 in Clonmel, the purpose built Haywood Lodge is comprised of two units (East and West House), each containing 20 en-suite bedrooms. The East House is for residents under the care of the HSE’s South Tipperary Psychiatry of Later Life team. The West House is a dedicated Rehabilitation and Recovery unit. All resident bedrooms and living spaces in Haywood Lodge are built around two internal courtyards. Each bedroom has an external door that leads directly to a garden area.

Established in 1967, Larkspur Park Pitch and Putt Club is a championship 18 hole course. Its complex in Cashel also offers tennis and badminton to its sports club members.

Thanking all those who participated in the event, Haywood Lodge Asst. Director of Nursing Lisa Grant said:

“As staff, we were delighted to be welcomed to the evening in Larkspur to enjoy the wonderful facilities there and of course participate in the pitch and putt games.”

“Colleagues throughout the mental health services in the South Tipperary area, whether in residential or community settings, prioritise the welfare of those we care for and support. The provision of activities programmes, such as in Haywood Lodge, are therapeutic in themselves – whether music, art, gardening or any other form of recreation.”

“We would like to acknowledge and thank all of the volunteers who gave their time and energy throughout the evening in Larkspur. Thanks to all the teams and players who participated in such an enjoyable occasion. We are also grateful to everyone who contributed in any way—those who organised, sponsored, donated prizes, sold tickets and supported the event.”

Aisling Carroll (Activity Coordinator, Haywood Lodge) added:

“Many thanks to Gemma Martin for overseeing the organisation of this fundraiser and to everyone at Larkspur, whose grounds were in superb condition in the warm weather we have been enjoying of late.”

“We were also pleased to be presented with fidget supplies to bring back for use in our activities with residents in Haywood. The residents back in centre were also thrilled that proceeds from the Cashel event resulted in a visit by an ice cream to Haywood!

“A special word of thanks to the families of staff and users of our service, as such support enhances our ongoing efforts. In particular, this fundraiser will help us continue to care for people living with dementia with dignity, compassion, and respect.”