A STUDY of what happens in the Stonebow Acute Psychiatric Unit in Hereford is being carried out.

All patients in the 62 bed unit will be interviewed but carers are being called on to play a major part.

They are wanted to fill in an all - embracing questionnaire giving their views on the condition, care, and services offered by the unit.

In particular the survey is seeking information on their experiences of the unit's general environment, treatment provided, staff attitudes, the admission process and future care planning.

The findings will help develop recommendations for change, if any are deemed necessary.

The survey has been commissioned by Herefordshire Community Health Council and Herefordshire Mental Health Forum will conduct it.

This organisation is made up a group of voluntary organisations in the county and their study will be independent and impartial and not paid for by money from the NHS.

Dean Storey, development officer with the Mental Health Forum said the views of carers with any experience of the Stonebow unit were very important and he urged them to take part.

Anyone who would like to be heard can obtain a questionnaire by getting in touch with Vicky Jenkins at Herefordshire Community Health Council by phoning 01432 358491.