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.
Policy Program

Where and how often does the PRG meeting?

The PRG meets on the following alternating schedule:

In-person

When: Early afternoon on a Thursday every second month.
Location: In-person at the Network office.

Online

When: Early evening on a Monday.
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 is 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 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.

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