"My treatment at April House - an example of good practice"

I write to compliment the treatment I have received at April House Eating Disorders Service in Bitterne Southampton. I began treatment at April House over a year ago after finally admitting to myself that my eating disorder was not only affecting my physical health but also my self esteem and just about every other aspect of my life.

From the word go, I found staff to be positive welcoming and friendly. The reception staff are deserving of particular recognition in the way they go out of their way to make clients and visitors feel as relaxed as possible during what is for most a very anxious and challenging process. I was very fortunate to forge a strong and effective working relationship with my therapist who took great care to empathise with my difficulties and develop strategies of empowerment. I went through many unforeseen personal struggles during the period of my treatment and feel very lucky to have worked with such a dedicated therapist who went beyond expected measures to make sure my continued welfare and wellbeing is a priority so that I can maintain the progress I have made in my recovery.

Whilst I do not define myself by my disability, I feel that I should add that as a wheelchair user I am somewhat familiar with health professionals who without malice make assumptions about me as a person based on what they believe I cannot do. However my experience with the entire team at April House was both refreshing and liberating and I feel that they could be used as an example of good practice in appreciating equality and diversity, their compassionate and client centred approach is one that many other NHS services could learn from.

Lastly, I would like to offer my sincere thanks to everyone who supported me, and without whom I most certainly would be less hopeful of my future. It is my hope that in the midst of Government cuts to vital services such as April House, campaigning for changes legislation may make this support available to all who need and deserve it at the earliest opportunity.

Many thanks once again.