Ashurst has advised Cygnet Health Care and its major shareholders on its acquisition by Universal Health Services, Inc. for a consideration of approximately £205 million.  This acquisition is the first of its kind by UHS outside of the Americas.

Cygnet is one of the largest independent providers of behavioural health facilities in the UK, with a total of 17 facilities including 15 inpatient behavioural health hospitals and two nursing homes.  Universal Health Care, Inc. is one of the USA's largest hospital companies.

The Ashurst team was led by corporate partner Bruce Hanton, assisted by associates Nerys Evans and Francesca Downes.  Partner Paul Randall and counsel Stephen Diosi advised on the employment issues. Senior associate Tim Gummer advised on the tax aspects of the transaction.