I never imagined I would be in a position where I would have to ask for help like this, but I have reached a point where there is no other option.

My son, Haydn, has struggled for nearly 15 years. During that time, he has been seen by medical professionals for his physical health, but the lack of meaningful support for his mental health has been devastating. Despite years of concern, he has repeatedly fallen through the cracks of a system that is supposed to protect the most vulnerable.

Recently, he waited nine months for a mental health assessment, only to receive a quick five-minute telephone call. During that call (without ever meeting him or properly assessing his situation) he was told he had no mental health issues and was discharged. No support. No follow-up. Nothing.

At one point, Haydn said he did not want counselling, but anyone who understands mental health knows that people who are struggling often do not fully understand what support they need, or how unwell they really are! To use that as a reason to withdraw help is beyond concerning.

I am his mother. I cannot stand by and do nothing.

The only way I can now get Haydn the help he urgently needs is through private treatment, at a cost of £41,000 for one month. It is an unimaginable amount of money, but I will do whatever I can to support my son and give him a chance to recover because ‘nothing’ isn’t good enough.

This situation should never have reached this point. We cannot keep saying ‘the system doesn’t work’ and accept the dreadful consequences. I am trying to take this further: not just for Haydn, but so that other families do not have to go through the same ordeal. I have tried to get this story heard in the press, but so far I have hit nothing but brick walls.

If you are able to donate, share this page, or offer any contacts or advice that could help my case be heard, it would mean more than I can put into words. Even the smallest gesture could help make the biggest difference to Haydn’s future.