My mother was admitted to a section for the first time in her 70s which obviously came as a shock to both her and the family.

As someone who has dealt with mental health services professionally to a degree for many years it was certainly eye opening as a family member of a patient. Many things have been extremely difficult to navigate but that also highlights those areas or people which have been exceptional and stand out .

When you enter the ward you have to liaise with whoever opens the door and find out any progress, when you get to the ward most staff either walk away or generally do not interact.

Paul Duncan Rollings however, just wow. So softly spoken, so calm yet he delivers his message in a non-judgmental, compassionate and empathetic way.
It is actually quite hard to verbalize why he is so special because of his manner. He goes out his way to offer support and opinion, he will ensure that he is around and if you have not managed to see him he will endeavor to find and update you. You can see the ward is busy and staff are busy but Paul finds that time, this included following out of the ward and even on his break speaking to me as I was leaving. In a time that has been so traumatic, he offered guidance and support, not avoiding difficult conversations but delivering them in a warm caring manner.

I recall one conversation where he was talking to me and my mother saw, Paul just quietly asked if mum wanted to join us and rather than a situation tense and confrontational Paul just explained what he had said and I watched as he explained to mum about her behavior, how it was, and how well she progressed, I had and still have not seen anyone else manage to do this with mum.

I imagine he would tell me he is only doing what others do and not going above and beyond, if I am right then Paul, this is the first time we will disagree. Honestly, he is an amazing asset to you all. Thank you.