January 16.

I write on behalf of the members of the Ayrshire National

Schizophrenia Fellowship, the majority of whom are people who have been

diagnosed as suffering from schizophrenia.

At our recent meeting strong views were expressed on two issues.

First, the only time schizophrenia is mentioned in the media is in

connection with a ''shock horror'' story. Many people with this illness

lead constructive, non-traumatic lives.

Secondly, the media coverage of the Ben Sillcock case gave the

viewpoints of psychiatrists, politicians, nurses, etc. on the

possibility of changes in the Mental Health Act, but what it didn't do

was consult the sufferers themselves for their viewpoints.

Louise Parker,

Co-ordinator,

10 Dean Terrace,

Kilmarnock.