Consumer involvement and participation is an integral part of Neami. Consumers have input into all levels of the organisation and are involved in the development, implementation, and evaluation of the services provided. Several consumers are Board Directors.
Consumer Participation
Neami has always valued, promoted and practised consumer participation in an attempt to design and implement services that are relevant and accessible for all consumers. The philosophy behind this practice is based upon a belief that consumers benefit most in their recovery process when they are provided with opportunities to participate in decisions that affect their lives. Neami views consumer participation as a fundamental right, and appreciates that in order for participation to occur in a meaningful way, several issues need to be addressed.
Neami has a responsibility to ensure that all staff enthusiastically encourage all consumers to participate in a manner that is appropriate, relevant and meaningful for them. Secondly, Neami has a responsibility to ensure that it has structures, policies and processes that enable consumers to participate in a number of different ways. In 2002 Neami identified over 20 ways in which consumers can participate in decision-making processes. These methods ranged from involvement with the Board of Directors, to recruitment of staff, input into Individual Service Plans and developing Rehabilitation Programs. All these measures have been developed in a genuine attempt to guide the development of services that are reflective of consumer’s needs. In the Winter of 2010, Neami released a more comprehensive consumer particpation report, outlining more integration and consumer leadership for the organisation. As a result, consumer participation is now a deeply embedded part of our culture.
Consumer Advisory Group
Neami established its first Consumer Advisory Group (CAG) in 2002 and has since set up new ones in each state as its services have expanded. There are currently four groups in operation including one recently established in Queensland. In WA as there is only one service, a consumer forum is convened where necessary. A Neami-wide Terms of Reference for the CAGs has been developed which spells out the role of the group and the structures and processes associated with participation. Group members come together in partnership with management to discuss and promote the ways consumers participate in their own support and in the development and review of Neami services. A key role of the Consumer Advisory Groups is to provide advice to Neami Management and Board on consumer issues.
Group Membership
Consumers interested in applying for a position in the group can do so by discussing it with their Support Worker and Service Manager. One to two members from each service site can hold a position on the CAG, and can serve a maximum two year term. Members attending the meeting represent themselves and are not required to represent the views of other consumers. Ensure a gender balance with equal members from the different service sites is a priority of the group; however membership distribution may vary with availability of consumers.
Members are reimbursed for their time when participating in the group.
Consumer Profile
A snap shot of the consumers who receive Neami support services is contained in our Annual Report on page 21. The snap shots provide an overview of people’s age, gender, ethnic profile, diagnosis and where they are receiving a service.