Rotary Club teams up with shopping centre in Haywards Heath for World Bipolar Day

The awareness and fundraising event took place at the shopping centre on Saturday, March 29.

It aimed to break the stigma around Bipolar disorder while promoting early diagnosis. It also let people know about the new local bipolar peer support group that covers Haywards Heath and surrounding areas.

One highlight of the day was the 9.5-minute cycling challenge, which organisers said symbolised the long road to diagnosis. They said the community rallied behind this challenge with 23 participants, aged ten to 80, cycling a combined total of 95km.

Judith Pratt, Rotary District lead for the Bipolar-Rotary partnership, said: “The community response has been incredible. It’s inspiring to see so many people come together to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and support such an important cause.”

Organisers said the initiative was made possible thanks to a generous £1,000 sponsorship from Nicola Bird, centre manager of Orchards Shopping Centre, which helps sustain the new local peer support group. Mike Oliver Associates provided the static bike.

At the event, the Rotary Club celebrated raising more than £12,000 to establish a new local bipolar peer support group in Haywards Heath. Funds had been raised through the club’s ambitious Pole to Pole Challenge, where Rotarians and friends walked across the South Downs and cycled thousands of kilometres, alongside sponsorship from the Haywards Heath Bike Ride.

Shopping centre visitors could also take part in a myth-busting quiz at the event. Orange roses were handed out to symbolize support and gratitude towards caregivers. Families were able to purchase flowers for Mother’s Day too with all proceeds going to Bipolar UK. An extra £550 was raised through flower sales and donations. Organsiers said every contribution on the day made a difference, whether it was through cycling, learning or buying a flower.

The support group meets on the fourth Wednesday of every month from 6.30pm to 8pm at The Yews in Boltro Road, Haywards Heath. It offers a safe space for individuals to connect, share experiences, and support each another. People interested in joining or finding out more about Bipolar UK can visit www.rotary-ribi.org or email [email protected].

This is the third year of the partnership between Rotary Great Britain and Ireland and Bipolar UK.