Oldham women’s facility ‘a space to heal, learn, and grow’

The hope is that Cygnet Kenney House, on the redeveloped site of a former nursing home in Fitton Hill, and part of the Cygnet Health Care division, will give women from the North West care closer to home and nearer to their supportive family networks wherever possible. Together with Cygnet representatives, the hospital was officially opened by Cllr Fida Hussain, Cabinet Member for Enterprise at Oldham Council, with whom Cygnet collaborated to offer employment opportunities to Oldhamers. Nearly two-thirds of the staff come directly from the Oldham area.

Cygnet’s ‘in-house’ interior design team worked with existing service-users, Experts by Experience, and carers, who consulted on artwork, furniture, flooring, wallpaper, and soft furnishings, to ensure that the environment is optimal for recovery. Former Cygnet Hospital Sheffield patient, Mia McGowan, one of the EbEs who worked closely with the team at Cygnet Kenney House, and helped officially open its doors, said: “I was once a patient in a hospital similar to this, and it was a place that changed my life. This new hospital will give many others the same opportunity. It's more than just a building; it’s a safe space, a place where people can heal, learn, and grow. This hospital will be a support system for families too. We know how important it is for loved ones to be part of the recovery process, and this hospital will ensure they are involved, informed, and empowered every step of the way.

Care will be delivered across three wards; Billington Ward – a 12-bed specialist PICU, Baldock Ward – a 16-bed Acute service, and Harben Ward – a 16-bed mental health rehabilitation and recovery service.

The photo shows Hospital manager, Amardip Prihar (front row, second left), with some of her team. We have recruited an incredible staff team, and our female patients will be fortunate to receive care from such a dedicated team of professionals.”