I agree that this 'worker' was out of line and inappropriate in her verbal confrontation to you. I would not take these accusations quiet as these are serious thing for her to accuse you of doing.

I would include in your letter the how the consumer support group plays a signifigant role in her mental health and in her welbeing. I would make a list of the progress she has made since joining your group and a 'run down' of the canteen purchases as well as the monitored cigarettes.

I would include if this verbal confrontation occurred in a private setting or if it was in the presense of others such as other consumers or a violation of the rights of your friend. I would suggest in the future if someone or a worker has a complaint like this that it needs to be in writing and turned over to his/her supervisor in order for review and if warranted, the Supervisor could then contact you about the concern.

I have a friend who is a patient in a state hospital and as a consumer, and on his contact list, there are many things they try to keep from me concerning his treatment and such.

If you can reveal some of the significant groups and activities she participates in at the support group and how they benifit her matnience in her wellbeing that I think would be good as well.

When they have a payee, seems it is like they (the payee) have alot of power as they hold the money over the person's head. You do have every right to be involved in her treatment especially if she has signed a release of information form for your involvement. I hope you the best and for this to be resolved. In benifit for both you and your friend.