Patient with mental health problems not involved in discussions about her care

Summary 1094 |

Miss T complained that she was unfairly discharged from mental health services.


What happened

Miss T has chronic anorexia nervosa and a long history of mental health problems. A team of professionals at the Trust felt that it had tried every possible treatment and she had shown no signs of recovery. It discharged Miss T into the care of her GP and arranged some short-term psychotherapy sessions. Miss T complained to us that she did not receive the treatment she needed and had been left unsupported.

What we found

We upheld some parts of Miss T's complaint. Trust staff discharged Miss T in line with established good practice. However, she was denied the opportunity to be involved in discussions about her care. The fact that she felt excluded led to her feeling upset and distressed. She would not have suffered this injustice if the Trust had involved her in discussions.

Putting it right

The Trust acknowledged its failings and apologised. It also explained how it would address the failings we had identified.

Health or Parliamentary
Health
Organisations we investigated

Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust

Location

Surrey

Complainants' concerns ?
Result

Apology

Compensation for non-financial loss

Recommendation to learn lessons or draw up an action plan