Involvement opportunity for people who use our services and carers

Posted on 25th February, 2013

Why not join the team on our Corporate Induction day? This day for new members of staff is held every month at Wonford House in Exeter. The programme has been recognised for its innovation in involving people with lived experience of mental health issues and their family carers in the training of new staff. We are looking to increase our group of facilitators and narrators and would welcome contact from anyone who has used our services or are family carers. 

Our current team runs a group session in the morning for all new staff. They share their personal experiences (good and not so good) of using services, of caring and what ‘recovery’ means to them. It is an interactive session with staff raising questions. We receive a lot of positive feedback from staff about these sessions.

The first step for people interested is to observe a session. If they like what they see and wish to become involved, we jointly discuss and implement any learning needs they may have before they deliver a session. The two people involved in each session are supported by a coordinator. We organise a rota, as people do not usually wish to attend every month. However, involvement in these sessions often leads to further development and involvement opportunities run by the Trust.

Payment is at £10 per hour plus expenses, lunch and refreshments. 

If you wish to get involved please contact the Trust’s Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) on freephone 0800 073 0741 or email dpn-tr.pals@nhs.net.