Empowering voices for positive change
At ACT Mental Health Consumer Network (the Network), we are the peak body for mental health consumers in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). Our purpose is to improve mental health services and programs in the ACT so that they work for all people when they need them.
Our History
Starting as a grassroots movement in 1997, we have been committed to the rights of people who have lived experience of mental illness (consumers), promoting a respectful and inclusive system that involves consumers, carers, and other professionals. We achieve change and make improvements in mental health services and programs through our core activity, the Consumer Representative Program.
Our Services
We offer many ways for consumers to be involved in our work through our education and training programs, Consumer Representation, and consultations with consumers on policy and program developments. Our Community Education program provides FREE training opportunities for consumers to become active Consumer Representatives and gain the tools and skills they may need to empower themselves in their daily lives. Our Consumer Representation program enables consumers to use their experience and skills to make change and improve the mental health system. Our Policy and Participation program allows consumers to contribute to the review and development of legislation, policy, programs, and services that affect them and other consumers.
Our Programs
Our programs are designed to empower consumers and promote a respectful and inclusive system that involves consumers, carers, and other professionals. Our My Rights, My Decisions program helps consumers understand their rights under the Mental Health Act 2015 (ACT) and put into place their decisions about their mental health treatment, care, and support should they require hospitalization in the future. We also welcome all mental health consumers in the ACT and surrounding areas to be a part of the Network in ways that suit their skills and interests.
Our Vision
Our vision is a community of connected voices achieving positive change. We believe that consumers, carers, and professionals working together can make a difference in the mental health system. We acknowledge and honor the traditional owners of this country, their culture, and continuing connection and contribution to the land and community. We also acknowledge people with lived and living experience of mental illness as consumers and their important lived experience expertise and ongoing contributions to the mental health sector.
Positive Experiences
The reviews highlight the excellent services provided by the ACT Mental Health Care Consumers Network. The reviewers have found the training to be informative and helpful, with facilitators who are empathetic and understand their needs. The environment is comfortable, and the network has provided a sense of confidence and empowerment for the consumers.
Reviewer Testimonials
Maree Pavloudis has been a member of the network for three years and has found the training to be invaluable. She has received a wealth of information and help, and has gained confidence in her abilities. Jane Colby has also had a positive experience, stating that the network provides training to help consumers gain confidence and information, and gives them a voice to advocate for mental health consumers.
Mixed Messages
However, Nuaa Peerlink's review is slightly different. While they are giving the network five stars, they are actually referring to the ACT Mental Health organization, not the ACT Mental Health Care Consumers Network. They seem to be supporting the ACT Mental Health Care Consumers Network's advocacy efforts, implying that the other organization might need more funding.
