Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust is celebrating winning a national service user award. LYNFEST, the Trust’s festival of music and arts for people experiencing mental health problems, won the Breaking Down Barriers/Tackling Stigma category at Old Trafford, Manchester.

It was the first festival the Care Trust has hosted for patients experiencing a range of mental health conditions including dementia, depression and anxiety. It supported people’s recovery and provided an opportunity for people to showcase their talents and creativity. Through involving a range of community groups and performers, the festival also helped to break down barriers and stigma surrounding mental health conditions.

Chris Weston, Head Occupational Therapist for the Care Trust’s Specialist Inpatient Services, said: “I am delighted that LYNFEST has won. The festival brought together staff and patients from a range of mental health services. Patients were involved in many roles from having the initial idea, planning and delivering the festival to performing music, poetry and displaying their artwork. People involved found it motivating and engaging.”

Over 100 people attended the event at Lynfield Mount Hospital last year including patients, carers and staff. Due to its success the Care Trust is holding its second festive of music and arts in June.

Allison Bingham, Deputy Director Specialist Inpatient Services at the Care Trust, said: “We are proud to be recognised at the national service user awards. LYNFEST was an amazing and extraordinary day which demonstrated the positive effects music and art can have on mental well-being for all.”

The national service user awards celebrate remarkable achievements and innovations led by service users in mental health services nationwide.