National Service Users Executive - Supporting your Vision

Back

15 Oct 08

Recovery and the National Service Users Executive

The National Service Users Executive has been formed as a result of the implementation of the Vision for Change national mental health policy. It is uniquely constituted so as to include both those individuals who have occasion to avail of mental healthcare services and those who may be described variously as family members, close friends, carers or relatives of those who actually use the services, and whose interaction with the services is often a vital source of support for the individual concerned, and indeed, for themselves.

"Service users and carers should participate at all levels of the mental health system." (Vision for Change p25)

"The vision that guides this policy requires that mental health services be characterised and led by a partnership between all stakeholders....The fundamental partnership is between service users, carers and all those working in mental health services." (Vision for Change p.31)

While it is readily acknowledged that not all partners may share the same perspective and objectives, one thing that can validly be said is that they are all agreed that the notion of recovery is a key shared philosophy. Support can be a vital element of recovery. What is important is that the type of supports available to each individual recognises their right to choose for themselves. Friends, family members and others who care about any individual striving for recovery can all be key factors in the realisation of the individual’s aims and objectives. The National Service Users Executive believes that person-centred supports should be promoted and developed within communities, and should be reflected in mental health services future plans for providing the type of services that support recovery.

Download or view document: Recovery_and_the_National_Service_Users_Executive.pdf

1 Comment

Leave a comment