Former patients report assaults inside locked mental health wards

Former patients who have been involuntarily admitted to mental health units in regional Queensland claim they have suffered physical assault and sexual misconduct while locked inside these wards. The Queensland government has not established an independent body to regularly inspect these facilities, despite a 2015 international treaty agreement. Advocates are calling for more oversight, similar to inspections carried out at Queensland's prisons and youth detention centers.

Bella, whose real name has been changed for legal and safety reasons, was a patient at Mackay Base Hospital's inpatient mental health unit last year. She alleges a male patient made sexual advances towards her and exposed himself while she was in the ward. Bella called the Queensland Police Service to report the incident, but the hospital had taken her phone away from her.

She said she felt traumatized during her incarceration in the psychiatric ward due to domestic violence and cyberstalking allegations she had previously made to family and police.

Elsie, also not using her real name, was an involuntary patient at Caboolture Hospital's mental health ward last year. She claims a male patient physically attacked her by headbutting and punching her after she asked him for help with another patient. Elsie's friend confirmed the incident and noted that she had slight swelling on her face after being punched.

Metro North Health, which oversees Caboolture Hospital, stated they could not provide details about Elsie's care due to privacy and confidentiality concerns, but they said they would take immediate action to separate patients and ensure their safety and wellbeing.

Jupiter, another former patient, spoke about inappropriate behavior by some staff during their hospital stays related to an eating disorder in regional Queensland. They reported instances of male staff members asking them to remove their bras before showering and doubted patients when they raised complaints about abuse. Jupiter believes mental health patients are often not believed when they raise concerns due to their diagnosis.

A former independent patient rights adviser who worked in regional Queensland also reported witnessing staff ignoring patients' needs. Former patients in regional hospitals have corroborated these allegations, highlighting a lack of communication and compassion from healthcare providers.