"Advocacy Support Cymru & my brothers hospitalisation"

My brother - a paranoid schizophrenic - was to be discharged from a stay in hospital. At his discharge meeting, his consultant psychiatrist, CPN etc etc all made their excuses for the poor support he had received prior to his hospitalisation, made largely unfounded and ill-judged suggestions as to why his mental health had deteriorated and made vague promises about the support he would receive once discharged.

His advocate, however, was brilliant. The advocate's knowledge of the law, my brother's entitlement to support, the health board's responsibilities and failings, was outstanding. Without her, we could very easily have felt overwhelmed and brow-beaten into accepting their version of events and suggestions for the future. In a very difficult situation, I would describe the advocate's support as above and beyond invaluable.

Advocacy for people with mental health issues is absolutely vital - especially when they are as understanding, experienced and able as ours was this morning.

Thank you!