A psychiatric hospital, which employs more than 500 nurses and nearly 2000 healthcare assistants, has pledged to enhance its care for patients by launching a fundraising appeal.

For Hope in Every Life is the UK’s first fundraising appeal, designed to transform the lives of people with complex mental health needs at scale.

It has been launched by St Andrew’s Healthcare, the UK’s largest mental health charity specialising in complex mental health. Founded in 1838, this is St Andrew’s first fundraising appeal for more than a century.

Complex mental health affects us all. One in 105 people have a diagnosis for a severe mental health condition (SMI)*, meaning that we are likely to know someone in our lives.

Putting this another way, that’s more than the population of Edinburgh. While society has come a long way in recognising mental health and breaking taboos, the most vulnerable – those with the most complex needs – are often overlooked. This is where St Andrew’s Healthcare and For Hope in Every Life steps in.

Dr Vivienne McVey, Chief Executive Officer of St Andrew’s Healthcare, said: “For Hope in Every Life is hugely ambitious. We want to help transform the lives of thousands of people who are often overlooked in our society. We want to support them to find a sense of self, connect with their community and live a better life. It’s about rediscovering hope for every life.”

Catherine Vichare, Director of Nursing at St Andrew’s Healthcare, said: “We are a unique organisation, as we are a charity that works in partnership with the NHS to deliver care for patients in hospital and in the community. Everything we do is with the patient in mind, which is why we’re so excited about launching this appeal which will be used to enhance the programme of activities we currently deliver. The funds we raise will be used to support additional services – such as specialist rehabilitation, therapy, research and aftercare – all the things that statutory funding doesn’t support.”

Oli Hiscoe, Head of Fundraising at St Andrew’s Healthcare, said: “For Hope in Every Life bridges the gap between what quality care provided and going the extra mile to make the difference for patients. By combining innovation, compassion, and evidence-based approaches, we strive to revolutionise complex mental health care and show what is possible when we go over and above for our patients.”

There are several ways to get involved. Individuals can donate or embark on inspiring fundraising challenges. Companies, schools and community groups can partner with us to raise funds and have a real impact and can join our group of dedicated volunteers to support our patients across the country.

To get involved and be inspired go to hopeineverylife.org

Donors, partners and volunteers can choose how they want money raised to be spent. This could be therapeutic garden programmes, musical workshops, exercise-based initiatives, enhanced aftercare, specialist research into complex mental health, or many other ideas.

*Data was published by the Department of Health and Social Care/Public Health England which reported SMI figures