Spectrum of Cultures Mental Health Consumer Group

Since 2005, a Mental Health Multicultural Consumer Group, Spectrum of Cultures, was set up by the Consumer Advocate in order to improve mental health services by voicing concerns and providing positive feedback at the local and statewide levels to stakeholders in the mental health system.

 

The group creates a trusting and safe environment where CALD consumers can have a say and be heard and respected through structured group meetings. The group offers essential support by providing activities offering socialisation and friendships between CALD consumers.   The group gears itself towards encouraging good mental health and independence. The group also challenges barriers to health such as stigma and difference.

Promoting participation in the community is encouraged through presentations by guest speakers from a variety of organizations.  Exposure to information enables consumers to learn what is available in the community, linking in if they are interested. Group activities aim at promoting CALD consumers wellbeing and recovery. This network building activities generate integration of consumers with the wider community.

Consumers come together in this group because they share similar experiences, they want to get better and they have simlar interests. By coming to the group, they know each others' cultural background and they respect their differences. This impacts positively on their wellbeing.

To all Spectrum of Cultures Members Best Wishes at Christmas and a bright New Year from Evan Bichara   Next Meeting will be : Date:             Tuesday 13th March 2012 Time:             11.30am - 1.30pm Location:       VTPU, St Vincents Hospital                       Level 2/ 14 Nicholson Street, Fitzroy Speaker:       To be confirmed   To confirm your attendance, please contact Evan Bichara on 9288 3335, 0411 054 882 or evan.bichara@svhm.org.au