The recently released Confidential Forum report to the Mental Health Commission refers to Lake Alice Adolescent Unit and the things that happened there .It does so in the context of cruelty and abuse occuring in other Psychiatric Hospitals, such as forced administration of medication, physical and sexual assault, forced restraint, and the general dehumanisation often the hallmark of such institutions. The long term effects such treatment had on the lives of many people and their families are fully acknowledged, as are issues of compensation, some of which are ongoing. Like all such institutions the abusers by no means represent all staff in such places. The good work of dedicated doctors and nurses, shackled by inept managers, in a system without judicious and professional complaint procedures, is also fully acknowledged. I found this expansive report well-balanced and accurate. It paints a complete picture of a flawed system of health care, clearly identifying major deficits and causative factors. It leaves NZ with an historical reference point, and clear indicators for quality mental health care in the future.

I experienced this arrangement In English Psychiatric Hospitals in the mid-sixties, before I came to New Zealand.

Forty years later I experience that same arrangement in the higher echolons of Nursing and Medicine today.

I leave my personal testament about the Lake Alice Adolescent Unit in the hope it will contribute to keeping our national history of Mental Health Care alive….. to be remembered.