"Emergency appointment"

I called the crisis line a couple of times recently when our son's mental health issues were becoming overwhelming and affecting the whole family. The last time he saw a professional was in June - he was transitioning from child to adult mental health - we arrived for his assessment appointment (at Area West Feltham) to be told he was not booked on the system.We had waited since November the year before for this so I was understandably angry and only because I kicked up a fuss was he seen by duty officer.

It was almost 3 months before we heard back from them with a copy of his assessment report. They stated a treatment plan but I still have had no further contact. When speaking to the crisis line people (who were extremely understanding and very good listeners) they sent an email to ask for an urgent appointment for my son. I was contacted by a duty psychologist at Area East Recovery Hounslow and given a date to come in with him. I arranged for time off work and he had to miss half day of college. When we arrived the receptionist couldn't find his name on the system, I was asked if I had a letter and I explained that someone had phoned me to arrange this emergency appointment. We were told to take seat and 10 mins later someone came form upstairs to tell us that my son could not be seen today as there were 3 people off sick and they didn't have anyone available. I was so angry! No-one had phoned me to let me know! This was supposed to be an emergency appointment!

I was offered a rescheduled date next week. Luckily I have very understanding boss who will allow me time off again. It would have only taken a phone call in the morning to let me know he could not be seen, and although we would have been disappointed, it would not have wasted our time and made him miss half a day at college! Absolutely shocking admin, can't believe that they are so disorganised! No wonder the young adults have so many mental health issues if they can't get the treatment they need. Not happy at all.