What happened to Jean Calder's father (The Argus, July 30) must have been unbearable. If only what was on the Panorama programme was unimaginable. The empty words of Peter Coles, the Royal Sussex County Hospital's chief executive, were certainly unforgivable.

Will Mr Coles call Ms Calder's article unhelpful, as he did the Panorama programme? The BBC, Ms Calder and The Argus have done a great public service.

Mr Coles should commit himself to ensuring the following:

* That ward staffing levels meet the care needs of every patient;

* That patients have their basic needs for food and drink met at all times;

* That staff conduct never falls below acceptable professional care standards;

* That neither he, nor his staff, will seek to dismiss the concerns of patients, their families or those expressed in the media.

He should found a forum where concerns can be raised and where the actions taken can be detailed.

Public confidence in Mr Cole's organisation is at rock bottom. Openness and transparency is what is needed.

-L Wright, Brighton