***Distressing content warning***

At the time if the hearing Deborah Dickson was 51 years old and is a survivor of Lake Alice Child and Adolescent Unit. She gave evidence about how a childhood illness led to her admission at Lake Alice at nine years of age. She described the conditions in the unit, where she would be made to mix with adult psychiatric patients and was sexually abused. She explained the impact Lake Alice has had on her life including the relationships she has with her children and grandchildren, the stigma she has felt, and how it has impacted her relationships and trust in others.