9. Short Debate: Hands up on Holden — Time for transparency on mental health services in North Wales

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 6:08 pm on 29 September 2021.

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Photo of Mabon ap Gwynfor Mabon ap Gwynfor Plaid Cymru 6:08, 29 September 2021

(Translated)

Thank you very much, Llyr, for bringing this debate before us today. I want to start my contribution by paying tribute to a constituent of mine in Dwyfor Meirionnydd, David Graves—the son of the late Jean Graves, who died in June 2016. David has been very determined in his campaign for a number of years in trying to ensure that this report is released fully. Jean was admitted to the Hergest unit because of her mental ill health. She had early onset dementia. Unfortunately, she also suffered in Hergest. Her care needs as an older woman with mental ill health were very different from those of other residents who were younger, some with drug problems. Unfortunately, it wasn't just Jean who suffered in Hergest, and the fact that there are ligature points still in units where patients are at risk of suicide show that the lessons have not been learned. And that comes as no surprise, because there has been a deliberate campaign to try to conceal the Holden report. Someone has to take responsibility for the terrible failures that emerged from Holden and, indeed, Ockenden. But, more than that, if we are to have confidence in our mental health services once again and learn the lessons fully, then we have to see that report being published in its entirety. Thank you.