Minister of Health wants urgent restorative work at Mental Health Centre

MINISTER OF HEALTH, Wellness, Environmental Health and Energy, Daniel Cummings, called for urgent restorative work to be done during a visit on May 1,2026 to the Mental Health Rehabilitation Centre at Glen.

Accompanied by senior health officials, and a team from the Roads, Buildings and General Services Authority (BRAGSA), the officials assessed the challenges facing the institution and identified that urgent restoration and rehabilitation work is needed to improve conditions at the facility. Minister Cummings requested of BRAGSA to urgently address the restoration works required to ensure a safer, more secure, and improved environment for both staff and patients.

Cummings also asked the Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Simone Keizer-Beache, who was also present, to evaluate the immediate and long-term infrastructure and operational needs of the institution, including the working conditions faced by staff.

The minister expressed appreciation to the staff at the Centre for their dedication, professionalism, and continued hard work despite existing challenges, and thanked the staff for welcoming the delegation and providing insight into the daily operations of the institution, and the urgent restoration works required.

The minister emphasised the importance of increasing

public awareness surrounding mental health, stating that mental illness should be recognised and treated as a health condition and not stigmatised or overlooked. He also stressed that persons living with mental illness require care, support, and understanding from their families, friends, and the wider society. Cummings noted too, that public education and awareness on mental health remain important priorities for the Ministry of Health. Chief Medical Officer Simone Keizer-Beache joined the minister in commending the staff for the outstanding work being carried out at the institution despite the challenges they continue to face. (API)