Giovanna and Hafod Coach Rani
Situation: Giovanna presented with suicidal feelings
Action: Coach Rani received a phone call from Giovanna and they disclosed they were having suicidal feelings and didn’t feel they could carry on. This was a long phone call - nearly two hours - in which Rani mainly listened and was empathetic and sympathetic to the tenant’s situation. Rani called the GP as Giovanna didn’t feel able to and a referral to the local mental health team was made.
Rani contacted local agencies such as the local authority, BAVO and Pobl to find information on tenancy support with mental health. Primary care for mental health was unavailable unless a mental health consultant made a referral. There was a lack of support available, and this support was mainly short-term, so Rani was having almost daily conversations with Giovanna to offer support and an ear of kindness. This built-up trust and formed a good relationship between them, but it was also important for Rani to set boundaries.
Giovanna eventually accepted to have floating support for a fixed period of time. Rani kept up contact with Giovanna during this time. Once the formal support ended Giovanna told Rani that they were feeling much better but knew they could contact Rani at any time, which they found reassuring.
Outcome: There has been a huge improvement in Giovanna's health, well-being and confidence over this time, as they were previously unable to contact the GP or mental health team directly for support. They do still sometimes struggle but no longer attends A&E regularly. The tenant may move area to be closer to family support when they feel able to cope with this change