Helping recovery for people with personality disorder

The Cassel Hospital Charitable Trust enhances the care and treatment of people with personality disorders and complex trauma by helping to improve the hospital buildings, facilities and equipment that patients rely on.

The Cassel Hospital and its extensive grounds are owned by West London NHS Trust. The main building dates from the late 18th century. In recent years, the charity has paid for a kitchen refurbishment and conference furniture.

The Cassel Garden

The Cassel hospital’s four-acre garden is a key focus and of huge therapeutic benefit to its patients.

Nature-based activities have been proven to bring great benefits to people living with mental illness. They boost confidence and a wide variety of skills, from social to creative.

Patients work with a professional horticulturalist every week to grow flowers, vegetables and herbs that are used by the kitchen to prepare healthy meals. In 2021, patients created a Centenary flower bed to mark the hospital’s 100 year history.

One patient said:

‘I enjoy sitting in the garden to read, as it is peaceful listening to the birds and looking for the squirrels and foxes. It gives me time away from the stresses of the therapy and allows me to focus on something positive. It also reminds me things are always changing and I too can grow and recover.’

Gardening projects supported by the charity include producing food to be eaten at The Cassel and growing plants and seedlings to be sold at local events.

We are grateful to Petersham Open Gardens and Richmond Parish Lands Charity for their continuing financial support.

If you would like to help people living with mental illness, please make a donation or get in touch to find out more about the charity’s work.

Keep an eye on our news page for updates on the charity’s work.