Women’s History Month is a time to reflect on the achievements of women, past and present, while recognising the ongoing fight for gender equality.
With International Women’s Day on March 8 serving as a further focal point, we took the opportunity to honour some of the incredible contributions of Cygnet women while acknowledging the continuous struggle for gender equality every day.
In addition to raising awareness of women’s contributions to history, our Cygnet community, and society, we shared stories from our colleagues and the communities we serve.
As we reflect on the accomplishments of women in our communities and beyond, we consider the progress we’ve made and the work that remains.
For our March blog, we are therefore shining a light on some of Cygnet’s significant women; highlighting those who inspire us, who work tirelessly for and with us, and who shape our future.
Women’s History Month celebrations honour and remember women who shaped our past.
Cygnet Kenney House, our newest hospital for women, will open next month in Oldham, Greater Manchester.
The hospital is named after Annie Kenney, a suffragette born in the area.
An equally remarkable woman, Alexandra Elstone, a muralist from Leeds, has been busy adding finishing touches to Cygnet Kenney House’s interior – with a series of eye-catching murals. As Alexandra says:
“The mural in reception was designed in celebration of women and diversity.
Knowing that the service was named after Annie Kenney, I aimed to celebrate powerful women and promote a positive message.”
You can read more about Alex, Cygnet Kenney House, and the Murals of Hope Project here.
Two significant Cygnet women whom we’d like to shine a spotlight on are Molly & Venus – 2 of our Experts by Experience – and who deserve special recognition for the ongoing impact they are making in their own lives, in their work, and in their community. Both women have inspirational stories and accomplishments to share.
March 8 marked International Women’s Day, a global day to celebrate women’s achievements and call for action to accelerate gender equality.
We observed International Women’s Day throughout Cygnet, from Cygnet Hospital Blackheath in London to Cygnet St William’s in County Durham.
Marilyn Mukuna, Hospital Manager at Cygnet Hospital Blackheath, said
“We came together across all departments in celebration of the incredible women who make our team, our community, and our society stronger. It was a truly heart-warming experience to share stories, express gratitude, and acknowledge the vital roles women play in every aspect of our lives.”
On March 12, in conjunction with International Women’s Day, Cygnet participated in the SmartWorks ‘Women into Work’ Jobs Fair. SmartWorks is a UK charity that empowers unemployed women by providing free interview clothing, styling advice, and job-seeking preparation support. Their mission is to boost women’s confidence with high-quality clothing women can keep, alongside personalised consultations and job coaching sessions to prepare for interviews. They accept referrals from various organisations, helping over 40,000 women across 11 centres in England and Scotland.
At the Leeds Jobs Fair, Cygnet showcased our live vacancies to over 250 women from West Yorkshire. Our team was available to discuss roles in healthcare and social care, and we engaged in inspiring conversations with attendees. Our thanks go to SmartWorks – the event was a success, connecting us with many potential female candidates eager to join Cygnet.
Cygnet’s Women’s Network is an inclusive staff network for all women and those who identify as women. The network celebrates, educates, supports, and develops women at Cygnet every day. Additionally, we raise awareness of the ongoing challenges women face, such as gender-based violence, economic inequality, and underrepresentation in leadership positions both in society and the workplace.
The Women’s Network collaborates across the organisation to engage and empower women and their allies, providing a safe and non-judgmental environment for connection and support.
For International Women’s Day, the Cygnet Women’s Network gathered at Cygnet Hospital in Stevenage to celebrate the inspirational women who work across the business and to highlight the initiatives that make Cygnet a great place for women to work.
Network members and allies participated in the event both in person and online to honour our amazing Cygnet women.
The day featured delicious themed cupcakes, gift bags, and meaningful conversations about career journeys, wellbeing initiatives, and fostering an atmosphere of female solidarity, togetherness, inspiration, and community spirit.
We shared stories of our inspirational colleagues and emphasized how Cygnet is accelerating efforts to support and empower women while addressing inequalities. We also organised presentations, discussions, workshops, and storytelling sessions to commemorate this special day.
61% of our workforce are women.
We are incredibly proud of this statistic and so on this special day, the Network also renewed its commitment to supporting each other and improving opportunities for all women at Cygnet.
As mentioned above, and, In line with this year’s theme, #AccelerateAction, two more wonderful Cygnet women shared their inspiring career stories to showcase how Cygnet’s support has helped them both thrive – professionally and personally.
This year’s theme – was “Accelerate Action for Gender Equality’’ and Cygnet’s Women’s Network is proud to embrace the #AccelerateAction pose as a symbol of solidarity and support for women.
In the Flex Photo featured, network members demonstrate the #AccelerateAction pose to show this solidarity.
Together, we are stronger and more dedicated to educating, supporting, and developing women every day throughout the organisation, and we express our gratitude to everyone who continues to support and participate in the Cygnet Women’s Network, making events like #IWD so special.
Together, we’re not just celebrating—we’re taking action!
Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day at Cygnet are times for reflection on the past and looking forward. We are committed to empowering all the women in our community by providing them with the resources and support they need to reach their full potential
We encourage all Cygnet women to share their stories and experiences, serving as role models for others. We will continue to advocate for policies and practices that promote gender equality.
As we celebrate Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, let us remember that the fight for gender equality is ongoing. We can create a more just and equitable world for all by working together. These occasions serve as a platform to celebrate women’s achievements and raise awareness of ongoing discrimination.
We honour the incredible women who strengthen our teams and communities and express our gratitude for the vital roles that women play here at Cygnet.
Cygnet is always looking for more talented women to join our team
