Health service users take part in 192-mile sail

Caragh Galley (middle) said the journey was eye opening for the service users and staff

Users and staff of a mental health service who took part in a 192-mile sailing adventure described the trip as "eye opening".

The group, from Suffolk's Early Intervention in Psychosis (EIP) service, left Ipswich on 13 April and sailed to Portsmouth to learn new skills side by side.

As well as battling tough conditions and sea sickness the group was able to see "stunning coastlines and beautiful animals".

Team administrator Caragh Galley said it was a "wonderful way to spend six days".

Ethan was a member of the team that took part in the six-day sail to Portsmouth

"The 192 miles was a challenge for us all, but one we welcomed with open arms and ended up exceeding our own expectations," Ms Galley said.

"We witnessed many new friendships being formed. It truly was an eye-opening adventure."

The challenge was organised by The Cirdan Sailing Trust with EIP teams across the country.

The Suffolk sailing team, made up of 10 service users and three members of staff, joined the Cirdan crew aboard the 22m (72ft) yacht Faramir.

On their journey to Portsmouth, bad weather struck which forced them to stay in Ramsgate harbour to ride out a yellow weather warning.

Once they got back on the waves, the team were able to see dolphins and enjoy the sight of the British coastline.

They arrived in Portsmouth on 18 April.

'Well deserved'

The group will meet again on 9 May for a celebration of achievement.

Psychological therapist Joanne Walkling said the "team spirit and blossoming friendships were wonderful to see".

“There were ample opportunities, such as sea sickness and tricky sailing conditions, for the participants to see for themselves that they can overcome challenges and adversities," Ms Walking added.

The sense of achievement was hard fought and certainly very well deserved."

Suffolk's EIP falls under the care of Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust.

The service helps people between the ages of 14 and 65 in Suffolk who experienced symptoms of a first episode of psychosis.