Lynhales Hall Nursing Home

My niece has over the past 5 years had the most horrendous placements in 23 assorted Mental Health institutions throughout the country. Every medication known to man was prescribed to "keep her quiet and calm" . This was suppressing the problem, not helping her through. Being continually drugged up and in a world of her own had its consequences, ongoing residential placements! . Some of these establishments, which were privately run, were a disgrace. There was no compassion, kindness, patience, or even any caring aspect. Staff literally had no interest in their work or their patient/resident.

Often being left alone very frightened and needing just a little kindness shown, a drastic deterioration took place time and time again. Her hair was unkempt and her general appearance scruffy, everything screamed of neglect. No one anywhere cared or wanted to help. Lies were spread around, incorrect reports and incorrect diagnosis forwarded to new placements; no one would take responsibility or listen to us her family as to how patients with Mental Health issues are being treated.

How can this be in our Society today? On one occasion I said to a senior Doctor "She would have better treatment in prison" I was told "Yes, she would". What an admission, but we know so, so true.

Much to our horror the next placement was to be into a Nursing home with very old people. How could they even suggest this? This would be yet another disaster. She was only 54, to be among old people - no, no no.

But.... We will always Thank God for this recent placement! At Lynhales the staff are caring, (and show that they care) they are compassionate, patient, kind, committed and dedicated. They understand what's going on and they want to help.

They know everyone by name in the centre and acknowledge each resident and visitor in the corridor; making each one feel special and important: each one an individual. Something so trivial as an "hello" means so much to these loved ones; reaching out their hand to them, or just a touch on the shoulder reassuring them. These carers use their common sense, their initiative, they certainly go beyond the call of duty. Plus so much 'involvement and participation' for the family. My niece went from being bedridden, incontinent, not bathing, not talking, being spoon fed to such an improvement, it was unbelievable. She is able to take herself to the toilet, sit at the dining table for meals with other residents, using a knife and fork. Having a bath/shower. Walking down the mile long drive on a daily basis. Phoning her family regularly, knitting, doing jigsaw puzzles and crafts and watching television! I could go on and on, so much progress.

Yes she still has a long, long way to go, but we no longer have to worry about her, wonder what she is going through, or happening to her. We have the reassurance that she is well cared for.

She has been transformed from a zombie to someone who has some quality of life. She feels loved and cared for, and knows the staff have her best interests at heart. Even visitors are treated with respect and courtesy: a friendly chat and a 'cuppa`!!! We are kept informed of all eventualities and asked for our suggestions and ideas.

I certainly would never have expected such results in a "Nursing Home", but it is all down to the individuals; the management, and the staff, who have obviously been highly trained, and carry out their work in a highly dedicated and professional manner and look after their clients with a passion.

This is a Care Home that is worthy of high praise, because they achieve results for the `very important`people in their care.

This is how it should be done, why is not so in so many places?.

Thank you all at Lynhales: You are a credit to society!!!!

We cannot thank you enough.