The Esk Centre Nhs Lothian (CAMHS & SMS) Ladywell Way, Musselburgh EH21 6AB

"Badly run by, and the staff are badly trained to deal with the day to day running of the centre, and the counselors advice is poorly given"

"Karen was great she didn't rush me and answered every question I asked as best as she could..All staff were great"

"Helpful but long waiting list for needing patients"

"I have been visiting the Esk Centre now for well over four years on a regular basis, traveling approximately over 60 mls every month or as required, to escape from the equivalent services in the Scottish Borders.(which l understand still have not changed to meet the high standards of the Esk Centre in Musselburgh). To begin with, the client or patient or relative or carer is always treated with courtesy and respect. , The patient ( and supporters) are always treated with genuine feelings and emotions that require to be carefully considered and helped. They have considerate rules and guidelines which are in harmony with how a kind and caring medical and psychiatric practise should work. Treating people as adults, as individuals and with respect, while building trust and professional working relationships. They do this by listening intently to your individual problems, after which they begin to form an individual care plan appropriate for each individuals circumstances and needs. The nature of their work is that things often do not go according to their plans. Patients or clients, carers or relatives, all have feelings and emotions which can often affect the patients care plan. But the staff at the Esk Centre continue regardless to treat their clientele with respect, sincerely confronting all issues in a mature adult and respectful manner. Full praise should be given in particular to the office staff who are always friendly, polite and helpful. They do not look down upon the people who speak with them, but rather listen respectfully and try to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. They are also willing to listen to your views and take them on board if they help resolve the problem. I have been privileged to work with Dr Fiona Watson due to my adult son having been assigned to her as a patient for many years now. We understand Dr Watson is sadly due to retire soon, she must be retiring early, which no doubt she fully deserves. In all my years l have never met such a professional, highly qualified doctor who has such a humble approach in treating her patients. Dr Watson is curtious and kind. She listens and will adopt patients views that do not harm the care plan she has devised with her patient. Dr Watson ensures, through years of experience within her field of expertise, that by the time the patient leaves her surgery, that issues have been resolved. A plan of action has been agreed, and that mutual respect remains. That what has occured within the meeting, is a carefully controlled two way dialogue which includes mutual respect and trust. That both parties continue to do their very best to accomplish the individual care plan to meet the patients needs. This can ofcourse include carers, family and friends as supporting the process. The care plan has realistic aims and objectives.lt is adhered to because it respects the patient and the patients support network, treating the patient as an individual that takes into account their complex issues and needs. The care plan is also flexible if required, due to changes in circumstances that arise fro time to time. Previously l mentioned that we travelled over 60mls every month, or as required to escape The Scottish Borders equivellent service.This measure was not taken until my son and his support had suffered the opposite to what the Esk Centre continues to provide. It was a very dark, painful day when we were forced to seak a good mutually respectful caring practise but it became like the Sun in Full Glory when we began using the Esk Centre practise. Thank God for good, kind, thoughtful professional people. Yours sincerely."