Mental health problems are common in older people

Mick Fowler, 69, from North Norfolk, is one of those who feels let down after being diagnosed with clinical depression 15 years ago after the break-up of his marriage.

"I went to my GP and because he was a very good and diligent GP he referred me to psychiatric services.

"I was treated with respect and understanding but then it all went pear-shaped."

In my opinion they think you're old and you'll shuffle off this mortal coil soon so it's not worth spending any money

After his initial positive experience, Mick found that cut backs and lack of funding, meant he could no longer access services.

He said he was passed on to various non-healthcare organisations, including a methodist church, which he did not benefit from.

"My GP tried his best but with limited provision he couldn't do anything."

Funding blight

One service which offered him a lifeline was a local drop in service called the "Heron Bus" but in 2006 that was also axed.

"It was a converted double decker coach that had showers and toilets and tea and coffee services and it was used as a mobile drop-in centre for people like me living out in the sticks in North Norfolk.

"I used to be able to associate with people with similar problems and discuss various mental health problems.

"There was help with getting through the minefield of social services bureacracy and it was a very good service."

He said he had been promised alternative services would be made available after he campaigned against the closure of the bus but he has not seen any evidence of that so far.

"In my opinion they think you're old and you'll shuffle off this mortal coil soon so it's not worth spending any money."

Mick has also suffered from the stigma associated with mental health, even having taunts thrown at him in the street, and he is frustrated that there is no support for older people with mental health problems.