" I feel staff are a lot more understanding and genuinely interested"

My first admission to the mental health services was back in 2003, as a result of cannabis abuse. It was a very negative experience as I felt patients were not looked well and the environment was very unhygienic and you could smell the bad odours.

Unfortunately the staff were not helpful, as I kept informing them that the place was polluted with disgusting smells and stressed for it to be cleaned but there was no change. Being the only Asian patient didn’t help either, as I felt the consultants were working with patients based on a western Medical Model, but I was assertive and explained that as a Muslim I needed a different approach.

I was determined to get my view across and went through numerous tribunals stressing on the importance of cleanliness as it would have serious effects on patient health. Finally in 2009 I saw change. In fact I could smell the cleanliness as I walked on the grounds of the hospital.

I am really pleased with the change, and the new décor. I feel staff are a lot more understanding and genuinely interested in supporting patients and grateful that they are apologetic if they couldn’t deliver anything on time.

I am very happy with the support available and facilities available for prayers. The changes also bring peace and reassurance to my family know that I am looked after in a safe, clean and supportive environment.