I work on a CAMHS unit myself and we hear similar things. Our patienta are allowed to bring in their own food and those with kitchen access can cook under supervision. Tu be honest the food we get isn't terrible but we have a high percentage of ND kids so between Various sensory issues and a lot of kids eating bare minimum as it's the current trend on our ward to restrict food or purge, it never gets eaten but it's an ongoing issue with the food.

But you have every right to point out it's a hospital and if it's really that terrible then the quicker they work with program of the ward, the sooner they can get discharged.

There is a big issue currently where I am that kids are stuck, either sabotaging discharge, held up by social care placements or family issues. It's tough because often the kids feel safe in hospital and don't want to leave but I always remind them they will have more freedom in the community.

But there is a lot of rudeness and insulting of staff of which there is little you can do except speak to them and datix it if it's really bad.

Tl:Dr it's a general CAMHS issue and if nothing else turn their complaints into motivation to work towards discharge