As NHS mental health beds remain scarce, the private sector is stepping in to fill the gaps. However, there are concerns regarding the standards of care and accountability within these private services. The series aims to investigate instances of poor care and the reasons behind the NHS's reliance on large private companies to provide essential mental health services.

The article provides a comprehensive guide to the upcoming General Election 2024 in Bristol, highlighting key seats and stakes. It covers various topics including the potential legalization of drugs in the UK, unsafe housing conditions in Brislington, and the Green Party's historic victory in the Bristol council elections. The Green Party gained 10 seats, becoming the largest party but falling short of a majority. The article also discusses the transition to a new committee system in Bristol's local government and features insights from drug policy experts and new local election candidates.

Cubs' Nate Pearson was ejected for a pitch to a batter's head during a game where the Reds won 7-1. Carson Spiers allowed one hit in five innings, contributing to the Reds' victory.

The article explores the human stories behind data on inappropriate Out of Area Placements (iOAPs) in mental health services in South West England. It highlights the increase in iOAPs due to NHS bed shortages, the financial and emotional toll on patients and their families, and the role of private providers like Cygnet Health Care and Priory Hospital. Through personal narratives, the article underscores systemic issues in mental health care, exacerbated by underfunding and insufficient community services. The Bristol Cable's investigative efforts and local impact are emphasized, along with the advocacy work of grassroots organizations like The 2 Way Street.

Roller skating has experienced a surge in popularity in Bristol during the lockdown, with social media playing a significant role in its resurgence. Retailers have seen a dramatic increase in sales, and the trend has historical roots in the African-American community's struggle against segregation and racism. The local roller-skating community, including BUMP Rollerdisco and individuals like Jeremiah Allman and Paddy Mitchell, has been growing, with events like the Soul Skate festival in Detroit highlighting the cultural significance of the sport. Initiatives are underway to create more skating spaces and to preserve the culture and history of roller skating.

On October 24, faith leaders from various communities held a peace prayer at the Peace Cathedral in Tbilisi, Georgia, pledging to continue every Saturday until the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan is resolved. The vigil, which had limited attendance due to COVID-19, was part of a larger global effort for peace. The article discusses the recent ceasefire violations in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and the US Secretary of State's involvement in peace talks. It highlights the shared cultural ties between Armenians and Azeris and Georgia's role as a potential secondary mediator in the conflict. The article also touches on the geopolitical implications for Georgia, given its proximity to Russia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Turkey, and the pressures it faces amidst the conflict escalation. The OSCE Minsk Group's meeting to negotiate peace has been postponed following a missile strike in the Azeri town of Barda.

NHS staff, including nurses and junior doctors, protested in Bristol for fair pay, highlighting that they have been excluded from recent public sector pay rises. Organized by the campaign group 'NHS Workers Say NO to Public Sector pay inequality', the protest emphasized the need for proper valuation of NHS workers, especially after their efforts during the pandemic. Trade unions like Unite, Unison, and GMB are calling for a 15% pay rise to address years of wage stagnation. The article criticizes the government's handling of NHS pay and public sector cuts.

During the COVID-19 lockdown, many students in Bristol faced challenges with online learning due to a lack of access to adequate technology. The government's scheme to provide laptops was insufficient, with a significant shortfall in the number of devices delivered. Students like Mariama and Shaheim struggled with slow or outdated computers, leading to increased stress and a pile-up of school work. Merchant's Academy, located in a deprived area, received only 22 laptops, highlighting the extent of the digital divide. Integrate UK, a local grassroots organization, stepped in to provide laptops and online tutoring to some students. As schools prioritize catch-up classes for those who fell behind, the need to bridge the digital divide remains critical, especially with the possibility of a second wave of the pandemic.

The closure of the Brunel ward at the Priory Hospital Bristol has left the city without any residential mental health beds for children, following the earlier closure of the Banksy ward. Local MPs and mental health organizations have expressed concerns about the impact on vulnerable children and the need for better-funded NHS services. The Priory Group, facing criticism for inadequate care and management, cited staffing shortages as the reason for the closures. NHS England is reviewing Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) in the South West to address the crisis.

Banksy ward, a psychiatric intensive care unit for young people in Bristol, is closing down due to severe staffing issues and frequent distressing incidents. The ward, run by the Priory Group, faced challenges such as high turnover rates, reliance on agency staff, and violent incidents. Despite internal investigations and temporary measures, the problems persisted, leading to the decision to close the ward. The closure highlights broader issues in the mental health sector, including national staff shortages and the quality of care in private hospitals. The Priory Group, owned by Acadia Healthcare, is also facing scrutiny and potential legal action.

Lockdown exacerbated the digital divide in education, leaving many students without access to necessary technology for online learning. The UK government's provision of laptops was insufficient, with many eligible students receiving none or very few. Local organizations like Integrate UK stepped in to help, but significant educational inequalities remain. Schools are now prioritizing catch-up classes and assessments to address learning gaps, while the government promises more devices for students. The digital divide remains a critical issue, especially with the potential for further lockdowns.

As restrictions ease and life returns to normal, this film captures human stories showing a snapshot of life in lockdown Bristol. The Bristol Cable collaborated with local filmmakers Paula Romero and Jacobo Garcia to produce this moving audio-visual time capsule.

A racially-aggravated hit-and-run incident in Horfield, Bristol, involving a 21-year-old NHS worker named K-Dogg, has sparked community protests against racism. The victim sustained serious injuries and faces a long recovery. Four suspects have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. Local residents and activists, including members of the All Black Lives group, organized a march to show support for K-Dogg and to stand against racism. The protest highlighted the need for empathy and justice for minorities, with participants sharing personal experiences and calling for societal change.

Safia, a young mother-to-be from Redfield, experienced her first psychotic episode in February and was hospitalized for 46 days. She faced numerous challenges, including being placed in out-of-area hospitals run by private healthcare companies like Cygnet Health Care and The Priory Group. Safia and her mum encountered poor communication, lack of privacy, and distressing conditions in these facilities. Despite these hardships, Safia is now receiving support from the local mental health community team and family, and both she and her mum are looking forward to the future.

Safia, a young mother-to-be from Redfield, experienced her first psychotic episode in February and was subsequently detained under the Mental Health Act. She faced numerous challenges, including being placed in out-of-area hospitals run by private healthcare companies due to a lack of local beds. Safia and her mother encountered poor communication, inadequate care, and distressing conditions at these facilities. Despite these hardships, Safia is now receiving support from the local mental health community team and family, and both she and her mother are looking forward to the future.

The Priory Bristol is closing its Banksy ward, the only psychiatric intensive care unit for children in South West England, due to staffing problems. The ward, which opened in 2017 and is largely funded by the NHS, has faced challenges including serious incidents and a shortage of permanent staff. The closure will leave the nearest similar facility almost 100 miles away in Maidenhead. The Priory Group, one of the UK's largest private mental health providers, has faced multiple closures and regulatory issues in recent years. NHS England is working on alternative plans for affected patients.

The author recounts their harrowing experiences in various psychiatric hospitals, highlighting the loss of personal identity and the dehumanizing conditions faced. Despite the life-saving aspect of these institutions, the narrative underscores the systemic issues within the mental health care system, including understaffing, lack of kindness, and the punitive nature of treatment. The author is now training to be an occupational therapist, driven by a desire to reform mental health services.

The Priory Bristol is closing its Banksy ward, the only psychiatric intensive care unit for children in South West England, due to staffing problems. The ward, which opened in 2017 and is largely funded by the NHS, has faced challenges including serious incidents and a shortage of permanent staff. The closure will leave the nearest similar facility almost 100 miles away in Maidenhead. The Priory Group, one of the UK's largest private mental health providers, has faced multiple closures and fines in recent years. NHS England is working to ensure the smooth transfer of the remaining patients.

The article discusses the challenges faced by individuals with mental health issues who are placed in out-of-area (OAP) facilities due to local bed shortages. Rachel Barclay, a carer for her son with complex needs, shares her struggles with these placements, which often occur far from home and can lead to additional stress for families. In 2019, the Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership (AWP) saw a 19% increase in OAPs from the previous year, with a total cost of £4.4 million. The article highlights that most hospitals used by AWP are privately run, with some receiving poor ratings from the Care Quality Commission. Dr. James Eldred, a Consultant Psychiatrist at AWP, discusses efforts to reduce OAPs, including increasing community services and home treatment options. The article also touches on the disproportionate impact on the BAME community and the establishment of a self-funded organization by Rachel Barclay to support parents and carers in the mental health system.

Protesters successfully halted an attempted eviction of van dwellers from disused private land on Glenfrome Road in St Werburghs, Bristol. The eviction, carried out by bailiffs from GRC Group on behalf of Wales & West Utilities, faced resistance from around 100 protesters, leading to a standoff that lasted most of the day. Police were present to maintain peace, resulting in four arrests. Questions arose about the timing of the eviction during the coronavirus pandemic, with local authorities advising against such actions to minimize risk. Wales & West Utilities plans to build a new depot on the site, which is currently going through the planning process.

The article highlights the increasing issue of out-of-area placements for mental health patients due to local bed shortages, focusing on the emotional and financial toll on families. Rachel Barclay shares her personal experiences with her son being placed in distant private hospitals, often with inadequate care. The Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership (AWP) has seen a rise in such placements, despite NHS commitments to eliminate them. Private providers like The Priory Group and Cygnet Health Care, criticized for poor care, are frequently used. Efforts to reduce these placements include increased community services and home treatment options, but challenges remain. The article underscores the need for systemic changes and better support for families.

The article investigates the growing involvement of private sector companies in Bristol's mental health services, focusing on the impact on patients and systemic issues. It highlights the case of Dominic Vickars, who died due to failings in a private mental health hospital, and discusses the broader context of NHS reliance on private providers like Cygnet Health Care and the Priory Group. The series aims to explore the reasons behind this trend, the quality of care provided, and the experiences of patients and their families, including those from BAME backgrounds. The article also touches on the historical under-investment in community services and the need for more NHS mental health beds.

The article emphasizes the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health, highlighting the importance of early intervention and compassion. It discusses the increased demand for mental health services in Bristol, with organizations like We Are Bristol, Avon and Wiltshire Partnership, and Mindline extending their support. The Hope Project, managed by Jez Spencer, focuses on managing distress to prevent suicide, while Bristol Mind has increased its helpline services. The article underscores the need for both individual and universal interventions to mitigate long-term mental health consequences.

The Bristol Cable is leveraging its community of 2,100 members to enhance its journalism through a new tool called Cable Links. Funded by the Nesta Future News Pilot Fund and supported by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, this initiative aims to create a member tagging system to better utilize the expertise and experiences of its members. The project, assisted by digital agency Outlandish, seeks to improve community engagement and reporting accuracy. The initiative draws inspiration from other media organizations like The Correspondent, MySociety, and the Texas Tribune.

With coronavirus restrictions in place, Ramadan in Bristol is markedly different this year. Mosques are closed, large iftar dinners are canceled, and worship is confined to homes. The Muslim Council of Britain and local organizations like the Bristol Muslim Cultural Society and Naqshbandia Aslamia Bristol are providing guidance and support to the community. Key workers and new converts face unique challenges, but many find solace in the opportunity for introspection and increased family time. The community spirit of Ramadan persists through acts of charity and solidarity, even in isolation.

Expecting parents are coping with changes to hospital visitation rules due to the public health emergency, with North Bristol Trust and University Hospitals Bristol suspending visits to adult wards and moving routine antenatal appointments to phone calls. Couples are facing challenges such as attending scans alone and limited birthing partner presence during labor. Concerns are growing about the mental health of new parents and the impact on birth plans and fathers. Midwife Wendy Proctor and the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists provide guidance, emphasizing the importance of birth partners while also ensuring safety through social distancing. Expecting parents are trying to stay positive and adapt to the new circumstances.

Hospitals in Bristol have implemented strict visitation rules due to the COVID-19 pandemic, significantly affecting expecting parents. North Bristol Trust and University Hospitals Bristol have suspended visits to adult wards, with antenatal appointments now conducted over the phone. Only one healthy birthing partner is allowed during active labor, and home births are currently paused. Expecting parents like Lucy and her fiancé, and Sam and Alex, share their emotional struggles and adjustments to these new measures. The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists emphasizes the importance of having a trusted birth partner, but current restrictions limit this support. The article highlights the mental health impact on new parents and concerns about the unintended consequences for fathers.

Mutual aid groups have emerged across the UK, including Bristol, to provide community support during the COVID-19 crisis. These groups offer various forms of assistance, such as picking up prescriptions, delivering baby wipes, and organizing social activities. The author shares personal experiences of setting up a local group and highlights the broader efforts of organizations like the BS5 mutual aid group, Base and Roses, and the National Food Service. The article emphasizes the importance of peer-to-peer support and the potential for these initiatives to foster stronger community ties and resilience.

The article explores the varied experiences of individuals coping with self-isolation and social distancing during the Covid-19 pandemic. It highlights the challenges faced by vulnerable individuals like Martin and Ken, who have health issues, and the adjustments made by their carers. The narrative also includes perspectives on maintaining social connections through digital means and finding new hobbies to pass the time. The article criticizes the lack of support from Bristol City Council for residents in supported housing.

The article highlights the voices of young people excluded from mainstream education in Bristol, focusing on their personal experiences and the support provided by Creative Youth Network and Bristol Futures Academy. It features stories from Sophie, Kian, and Katy, who share their struggles with mental health, exclusion, and the lack of support in mainstream schools. The narrative emphasizes the importance of creative outlets and supportive relationships in helping these young people re-engage with their education and build confidence.

Housing costs in Bristol are driving young people to consider intergenerational living arrangements. Seerat Kaur, a PhD student, and Joan Solomon, a 93-year-old former teacher, share a home through Homeshare West, which matches older householders with younger homesharers. This arrangement provides affordable housing for Seerat and companionship and assistance for Joan. The concept, supported by organizations like United for All Ages, aims to bridge the generational divide and address issues like loneliness and high rent prices.

Mike Slater, a West-Country Occult Historian, discusses the history of witchcraft in the West Country, including the persistence of belief in magic after official trials ended and the practice of 'witch scratching' to counteract supposed curses.

In Bristol, parents of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are forming tight-knit communities in response to inadequate support from the local council. A recent report declared Bristol's SEND system unfit, citing extensive delays in processing crucial Education, Health and Care Plans. Parents, feeling isolated and stigmatized, have found solace and practical assistance in groups like Autism Independence and Bristol Autism Support, which offer weekly meetings, advice, and inclusive activities. These initiatives not only provide a network for sharing experiences and resources but also contribute to the mental well-being of the families involved.

In Bristol, parents of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are forming tight-knit communities in response to inadequate support from the local council. A recent report declared Bristol's SEND system unfit, citing extensive delays in processing crucial Education, Health and Care Plans. Parents, feeling isolated and stigmatized, have found solace and practical assistance in groups like Autism Independence and Bristol Autism Support, which offer weekly meetings, advice, and inclusive activities. These initiatives not only provide a network for sharing experiences and resources but also contribute to the mental well-being of the families involved.

Female MP candidates in Bristol have reported experiencing misogynistic abuse and threats during their campaigns. Notable figures like Nicola Bowden-Jones, Heather Mack, and others shared their distressing encounters, highlighting the hostile environment. Some candidates, including Thangam Debonnaire and Karin Smyth, chose not to discuss the issue publicly. The article also notes that while some female candidates have faced significant abuse, others have reported little to none. The Labour and Green parties have pledged to address misogyny as a hate crime. Research indicates that while male MPs receive more abusive tweets overall, female MPs face predominantly sexist abuse.

Bristol North West, a marginal seat, faces significant school funding cuts, impacting education quality and special educational needs (SEND) provision. Parents express frustration over Labour's handling of SEND and the Conservative government's austerity measures. The general election sees parties promising increased education funding, with Labour and the Lib Dems proposing major investments. The article highlights the challenges faced by schools, including budget cuts, fundraising for basic supplies, and the redistribution of funds from urban to rural areas. The Labour Party faces criticism for its local council's decisions, while the Conservative Party is blamed for broader funding cuts.

The Bristol Cable has hired two emerging journalists, Priyanka Raval and Fatima Hudoon, as part of a new paid placement program aimed at fostering local talent. Priyanka, with experience in India and Lebanon, aims to focus on investigative journalism and diversifying media voices. Fatima, with a background in refugee advocacy, is keen to explore issues of crime, privacy rights, and civil liberties. Both journalists appreciate the independence and transparency of The Bristol Cable and look forward to contributing impactful stories to the community.

An investigation by The Bristol Cable in collaboration with the Bureau of Investigative Journalism revealed that over 19,000 British citizens were stopped by immigration officers in the past five years, despite being unable to commit immigration offenses. The data, obtained after a seven-month FOI dispute with the Home Office, suggests racial profiling in 11 major UK cities. Barristers from Garden Court Chambers and MPs have called for explanations and an urgent review of these practices. The Home Office insists all operations are intelligence-led and compliant with the Equality Act 2010, but the data raises questions about the quality of intelligence and the disproportionate number of stops among certain nationalities. The 'hostile environment' policy, which encourages public reports of suspected illegal immigrants, has been criticized for fostering division and undermining access to essential services.