Getting involved
WA Mental Health and mental health services value the knowledge and experiences of mental health consumers and carers. We encourage you to:
- connect with other consumers and carers to provide mutual support
- contribute to developing better mental health services
- participate in community forums, workshops and training
- share your stories on this website, and in publications
- subscribe to your local health service newsletter and the Mental Health Head2Head magazine
- become a living book at the living libraries event
Consumer participation in WA mental health services
Consumer participation is a key element of mental health service development at national, state, regional and health service levels. This can include volunteering, participating in committees, consultancy or employment as a peer support worker.
To find out more contact the Statewide Consumer Participation Coordinator on 9222 0237 or carol.scherret@health.wa.gov.au.
To find out about opportunities near you, contact your local mental health service.
Useful links
- Australian Mental Health Consumer Network is a national non-government mental health consumer organisation providing a national voice in mental health service planning, delivery and evaluation.
- Health Consumers’ Council is an independent community based organisation, representing the consumers’ voice in health policy, planning, research and service delivery.
- WA Mental Illness Awareness Council Inc is a consumer led advocacy organisation.
- Volunteering WA is a peak body that helps people to start volunteer work and provides training and support.
Carer participation in WA mental health services
A strong carers’ voice can help to create positive change in the mental health system. Carers WA supports representation of carers’ perspectives on mental health issues. This is primarily achieved through carers’ participation in committees or advisory groups for the planning, development and delivery of mental health services.
Carers are also recognised by the Carers Recognition Act 2004 and Carers Charter. There are government agencies and non-government advocates that can assist with complaints of discrimination or inequity.
To find out more contact Carers WA on 9444 5922.
Useful links
- Carers Resources Online by the Department of Communities provides information on the Carers Recognition Act, Carers Advisory Council, services, statistics, resources and links.
- Volunteering WA is a peak body that helps people to start volunteer work and provides training and support.