"Absolutely applaud the huge improvements"

Can I just say thank you for the improvements made to the treatment and understanding of patients admitted with Mental Health issues.

Not only did I get beds, when there weren't any higher priorities that required them. Which is perfectly understandable. I was sat down in view of staff and noticed they payed a lot of attention to how well I was, where I was etc.

The staff on the RATS I believe, some of the kindest, understanding staff I have ever seen, they even kept my medication safe even after being moved overnight on to another ward/unit. Who were equally as fantastic. Making sure I ate and drank before leaving and got my medication for me.

Everything was taken into consideration, including my sever eye infections. I was kept hydrated via a drip, and even though they dealt with a number of more serious accidents and emergencies, the wait time to be fair was the fastest so far. Add in their professionalism I for the first time in months felt safe and more than happy to wait. I completely understand that other cases will take priority. But feeling comfortable encouraged me to get medical and mental support.

The staff also for the first time handled talking about my issues, previous experiences, and the long term potential damage in a way that wasn't condescending but informative, to make sure I was well aware of the dangers and hopefully would seek support before something serious happens in the future.

Mental Health is a second by second challenge, but having dedicated staff who care for mental health patients exactly with the same compassion and understanding as other medical emergencies actually helped to open my eyes more to understanding that one: I'm not well, but there are ways and support to hopefully avoid it getting even worse.

I genuinely hope this is the last sever case, and that given my better understanding I can take steps to avoid it becoming as bad in the future. Running down my body and suffering infections due to mental health has been an eye opener, I will do my very best to get support in future.

Thank you so much to everyone there. This is a fine example of a great health care service and dedication.