an aussie cønsumer newsletter

This marks our third birthday - the first issue was uploaded in August 1997. Congratulations to the newsletter team .

Consumer supporter Merinda Epstein has relocated to the ACT to be the project worker for the Community Development Project.

"Consumers and carers are increasingly asking for an enhanced role within the mental health sector ... in policy development, service delivery, evaluation and accreditation processes as well as professional education activity." The CDP is a national project, funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care. The aim is to put in place strategies and resources that will enable consumers and carers to participate more actively through the development of community advocacy skills.

During the first phase of the project, a Kit - a "guide to the advocacy we choose to do" was developed. It's been specifically designed as a self-access manual for consumers of mental health services and carers. Copies are available from the MHCA for $46. By mid September the full Kit will be posted on the web at www.mhca.com.au . Consumers and groups will be able to download specific sections from there.

The second phase of the CDP has recently been contracted to the Mental Health Council of Australia (MHCA). The MHCA is the peak national NGO established to represent the interests of the Australian mental health sector.

E-MAIL Merinda at merinda.epstein@mhca.com.au or phone MHCA (02) 6285 3100.

"More than the children's fear of darkness is an adult's fear of the light"    David Phillips