Policy Reference Group
A core feature of our work is to ensure that:
1. The voices and needs of people with lived experience of mental illness (consumers) are heard and reflected in the Network’s policy advice and systemic advocacy; and,
2.The Network has influences on issues, policies and programs affecting the interests of consumers.
One way that the Network achieve these goals is by providing consumer feedback on policies, procedures and other matters that affect consumers. The Network receives requests from agencies in the ACT, such as Canberra Health Services (CHS), for consumer feedback on a policy, procedure or other matter. It is then the Network’s job to organise and provide consumer feedback. The PRG is one of the ways that the Network organises and provides this consumer feedback.
PRG members serve a two-year term and are for any person over 16yo who identifies as having lived experience of mental illness as a consumer and who is a member of the Network. If you are not yet a Network member, you can sign up for free here.
The work of the PRG includes:
- Reading policy and procedure documents etc.
- Assessing and providing verbal and/or written feedback about policy and procedure documents.
- Engaging in group discussions about policies and procedures that can relate to difficult and nuanced topics.
Where and how often does the PRG meeting?
The PRG meets on the following alternating schedule:
In-person
When: 12:30-2:30pm on the 3rd Thursday in even-numbered months (Feb, Apr, Jun, Aug, Oct & Dec).
Location: In-person at the Network office.
Online
When: 5-7pm on the 3rd Monday in odd-numbered months (Jan, Mar, May, Jul, Sep & Nov).
Location: Online via Zoom.
Note: Online PRG members must have reliable access to a personal device (computer, laptop, phone or tablet) that has a webcam, microphone and stable internet connection.
Participation in the PRG would be suitable for consumers with an interest in reviewing policies, procedures and other matters. This is a group that requires good reading and comprehension skills. Experience with reviewing policies and procedures is not necessary to become a member of the PRG. Documents for reading and review will be provided up to 1-2 weeks prior to each meeting. Participants are expected to have read the documents prior to the meeting and be ready to provide feedback either during the meeting itself or via written correspondence if they are unable to attend.
Current Vacancies
We are pleased advise that the Network has the following opportunity for you to join our PRG.
In-person PRG
- 4 vacancies
Online PRG
- 4 vacancies
All PRG members receive standard reimbursement to cover their participation costs.
How to apply: If you are interested in joining the PRG please click on the button below to be taken to the online Nomination Form, and select the Policy Reference Group opportunity.
If you are interested in any of the Consumer Representative opportunities that are also listed on this form and might consider becoming one, head to our Consumer Representation page to read more about this role and how you can become one for the Network.
What next?: All nominations will be considered by a Steering Committee within two weeks of nominations closing, and all nominees will be advised of the outcome of their nomination within one week after this process has been completed.
Induction training and support will be provided for accepted nominees.
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