"Things are moving forward slowly"

Our son has had mental health issues for the past 12 years. He has been sectioned four times. He presently lives with us. Until this year we never requested a carer's assessment because we thought it purely financial - and we weren't interested. We had no contact with his doctor because he did not wish it. Every time there was a relapse we were left to pick up the pieces with no help from the NHS trust (Nottingham). Although we knew of the crisis team, only two months ago did we learn that the team was proactive and could be called on before matters reached a crisis point. Matters are further complicated by the fact that because of our postcode we are sometimes treated by the city team and sometimes by the county - liaison has been very poor. The latest relapse was caused by his wishing to again try to manage without meds - perhaps not an unreasonable request after two years - but the NICE guidelines say that this should be carefully monitored: it wasn't - he went for two months without supervision - by which time it was too late.

This time, however, we have been much better informed and included in proceedings. The crucial link was Debbie - responsible for collaborative care coordination at Highbury Hospital. She has been able to draw us much more into the process and has set up meetings with the doctor. Also we have been introduced to a programme called 'Time to Talk' which has given us a means of voicing our concerns while our son is in hospital - an arena we have not previously had.

Things are moving forward slowly - the diverse agencies seem to be coordinating a little better - but there is still some way to go!