The Newham Centre for Mental Health hosted a visit from Sir Stephen Timms MP on Friday 25 November where he formally opened a new fully-equipped gym. A sports therapist/personal trainer will also be available to guide and support in the use of the equipment, and talk to people on the wards about coming to a gym session.
Bailey Mitchell, Director of Mental Health Services in Newham said, "The days can be very long when you are admitted to a mental health unit, especially at the weekends. The gym will be a welcome addition to our activities schedule and enable people to move, get some exercise, try out different equipment and have some time away from the ward. Exercise gives people a different focus and can be beneficial mentally. I am really pleased we have this additional option that can be enjoyed by staff and service users."
The gym was developed by sectioning off part of the dining room to make space for it. Fortunately, the dining room was a big space and remains a large area for staff and service users to have meals in.