Mind comments on a new report that shows patients are living in fear

Posted Wednesday 30 January 2008

The Mental Health Act Commission report 'Risks, Rights and Recovery' out today (Wednesday 30 January) highlights the shocking level of fear and intimidation that patients experience on mental health wards.

Mind Chief Executive Paul Farmer said:

"This report confirms what patients have been telling Mind for many years, that some mental health wards can be frightening, intimidating and dangerous places to be. Hospitals should be therapeutic places of safety but unfortunately for some people their hospital experience only serves to hinder rather than help their recovery."

"While the Government seems apparently confused about its pledge to abolish mixed sex wards, many patients continue to be treated in an environment where their dignity and safety is compromised. People with mental health problems are some of the most emotionally vulnerable patients in our hospitals and deserve the highest level of protection not the least."

"Many trusts have made positive enhancements to ward conditions but there are still too many that at best, offer boredom, and at worst, fear and abuse. The Mental Health Act Commission plays a vital role in highlighting where problems exist and helping us understand the experience of mental health patients. It is critical that in its new incarnation as the Care Quality Commission this work continues."

Notes to editors

Mind is the leading mental health charity in England and Wales. We work to create a better life for everyone with experience of mental distress.

For more information, interviews and a range of case studies please contact Mind press office on T: 020 8522 1743 M: 07850 788514 E: press@mind.org.uk ISDN line available: 020 8221 0817.

Please note that Mind is not an acronym and should be set in title case.

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