"IMHA display passion & pride for their work"

I was admitted to Talygarn Psychiatric Unit, Pontypool, South Wales. When I first arrived I was anxious and worried about having my ward round with my Psychiatrist and mental health team. Initially it was a daunting prospect and I felt alone in getting my voice heard and expressing my opinions and concerns during ward round as well as pushing for the treatment that I wanted and believed was best for me.

After meeting with Dan, the IMHA, the concerns I had about my ward rounds faded, I felt confident that my views and decisions regarding my treatment would be heard and respected.

I can honestly say Dan is the best IMHA I've had, he is extremely knowledgeable in every aspect of mental health, admission on the ward and my care and treatment. Dan has been a consistent source of support and reassurance, he has always made time for me, even with his very busy schedule and work across different wards.

From day one, he always fought my corner, always being there when he said he would even when he was sick and should have been in bed recovering, he never let me down.

I truly think that if every advocate displayed the same passion and pride in their work and courage of their convictions that Dan does on a daily basis , never faltering or wavering under pressure, then every patient would have the level of support and information required to understand and exercise their rights and have their voice heard.