Caring for the carers of people with mental health problems

A ward manager has set up a forum where carers of relatives or friends with mental health problems can discuss and find solutions to their problems. In 1994, relatives and carers were invited to join the special hospital-based group, which met every fortnight. The ward manager was present in a facilitative role, but a 'bottom-up' approach focused on the needs and wishes of participants. In this paper, the author stresses the importance of respecting participants' views, and communicating complaints to the relevant hospital departments.