A GRATEFUL patient has benefitted from renewed efforts being made by a hospital’s mental health unit.

Mike Hemlin, of Rhyl, received treatment from Glan Clwyd Hospital’s Ablett Unit following a battle with depression.

The 53-year-old is one of the number of patients who has benefitted from a new partnership by the unit, which ensures patients are supported to continue to look after their mental health after being discharged from hospital.

The partnership, which has now been formally launched, is made up of the Ablett Unit staff and North Wales Mental Health Development agency, Unllais. The team identify activities and support services in a patient's community in order to aid them with their recovery.

Mr Hemlin said: “When I think back now to the state that I was in and where I am today it’s just a million miles away. I’ve had help to find permanent housing, apply for benefits, and even support to do everyday things like shopping and cooking for myself."

Hannah Luhde-Thomson, improvement and partnerships development officer at Unllais, said: “By promoting engagement in community activities and third sector mental health organisations we aim to encourage the development of supportive relationships in the community and the learning of new skills.”

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) was put in special measures after a report into the Tawel Fan ward, one of the Ablett Unit's ward.

The board was made aware by families of serious concerns about the care of patients at Tawel Fan in December 2013. Action was taken to close the ward and patients were safely transferred to alternative care.