"My thoughts as a volunteer"

Thank you for your comments and suggestion. We will forward this comment on and you will receive a response to this posting.

Thank you for this very helpful comment. Whilst on our inpatient units we always strive to keep consistent appointment times, we are aware that these times can on occasion run over, we apologise that you have witnessed delay and inconsistency with appointments and we hope you will pass this on to the service users affected.

On each of our inpatient units the consultant psychiatrists have allocated times when they attend the unit, these times are the same every week. Service users are able to book a time slot to see the consultant with or without relatives or key workers. If service users do not take this option nursing staff will usually allocate them a time. These appointment times should be clearly displayed on all wards to ensure service users and anyone accompanying them are aware of when their appointments are.

Some wards operate different procedures and depending on length of stay would not always see a consultant psychiatrist but may see a registrar or staff grade doctor (both of whom are fully qualified), regardless the service user should be made aware of when this is likely to happen.

I will ensure this information is feedback to the inpatient teams and would ask that you please alert us if you have any further issues.

In relation to your Mother’s care, can I suggest you speak directly to her carers as your involvement in her care is a vital component but without full details I am unable to assist in this aspect of your post.

Many Thanks,

Rachel Garton

Modern Matron

Adult Mental Health Services