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Development of a consumer advocacy program.
M O'Donnell1, M Proberts, G Parker
1Psychiatry Unit, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia. o'donnellmc@sesahs.nsw.gov.au
The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry
|March 20, 1999
Summary
Consumer advocates in Sydney
Area of Science:
- Mental Health Services Research
- Community Psychiatry
- Consumer Advocacy
Background:
- Community case management models are evolving for individuals with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
- Client-focused approaches are being explored to improve mental health outcomes.
- The need for effective consumer support within mental health services is recognized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the development of a consumer advocacy program in Sydney, Australia.
- To identify key components for successful consumer advocacy programs in mental health.
- To inform future service delivery models incorporating consumer input.
Main Methods:
- The advocacy program was developed within a research project framework.
- The project investigated client-focused case management for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
- Methodological constraints influenced the program's development process.
Main Results:
- The study delineated the process of developing a consumer advocacy program.
- Key components for future programs were identified despite research limitations.
- The value of consumer input in service development was highlighted.
Conclusions:
- Consumer participation in service delivery should be flexible and consumer-driven.
- Advocacy programs require broad support, supervision, training, and clear roles.
- With support and autonomy, consumer advocates are valuable resources for peers.