EditorSwansea man speaks out after years of mental health service failings
Now receiving support in hospital, he is speaking out to raise awareness of what he describes as “deep cracks” in the Welsh mental health system, particularly in services provided by Swansea Bay University Health Board and the Crisis Team in Swansea.
“I first started struggling with my mental health when I was just 13,” he said. “I was referred to CAMHS [Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services], but instead of getting help, I was told it was just behaviour issues — that I didn’t have a mental disorder. They didn’t listen to me or my family.”
He says that for eight years he was passed from service to service with little support, despite clear signs of distress. His mother, whom he describes as his biggest supporter, continued to advocate for him, but says she too was repeatedly dismissed.
“The system failed me and my family. They made us feel like we were exaggerating, like there was nothing wrong. But there was.”
In the last four years alone, he says he has been sectioned under the Mental Health Act eight times and admitted to Ward F at Neath Port Talbot Hospital on multiple occasions — a ward he describes as “unsafe and damaging.”
He alleges that one doctor labelled his actions as “attention-seeking” and “just behavioural,” and describes being forcibly restrained after trying to leave the ward, resulting in bruising. He also claims a staff member once grabbed him by the throat.
“There was no care or compassion. Just control and judgement.”
He also raises concerns about patient confidentiality, saying staff would discuss other patients’ medical information in communal areas where it could be overheard.
Earlier this year, a life-threatening incident led to a turning point — a correct diagnosis and the right medication. Now in hospital and beginning his recovery, he says the experience has left him determined to speak up.
“If services had listened to me and my mum when I was 13, I truly believe none of this would have happened. So much pain, trauma, and danger could have been avoided.”
He added: “I’m not speaking out to shame anyone. I’m speaking out because if we don’t tell the truth, nothing will ever change. I lost nearly ten years of my life to being ignored and not supported.”
“There needs to be proper accountability. We need professionals who listen, who investigate properly, who care. Mental health wards should be places of healing, not fear. Crisis teams should act with urgency and compassion — not make people feel like a burden.”
He says he is now on the road to recovery, with a support plan in place, a team who listens, and treatment that is finally making a difference.
In response, Swansea Bay University Health Board said:
“Strict confidentiality rules mean we are unable to comment on individual patients in our care and therefore cannot comment on the claims being made.
However, we can confirm we have received a formal complaint from the patient, and we will respond to the patient directly in due course.
We actively encourage patients to always let us know if they have any concerns.”
For information on how to raise a concern or complaint with Swansea Bay University Health Board, visit their Complaints and Feedback page.
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