Topic Tuesday // Tools for Advocacy // Tues 19th October, 7:00-8:30PM AEDT

Good sub-question @chibam .

Sometimes, the success is not LOUD and clear. It can be subtle and discrete.

When I raised an issue once, all I wanted was the alleged perpetrator to be "shaken" so what he did does not happen to anyone else. I in no way wanted the person to 'suffer'.

So although from the outside, it may not seem my advocacy was 'successful', it doesn't mean people have not changed because of the work. We make just not hear it.

Just keep on going @chibam !

Question 7. Where can I find more information and resources? @Daisydreamer

That's fine "to retire". @Shaz51 . So the next question is, "which areas can we work on together to support you to retire?"

@cloudcore @Daisydreamer @Former-Member

Before this thread shuts down:

Is there any central go-to website, ect. we can go to, to know at any given time what inquiries, consultations, ect. there are going on that we can contribute our insights to?

Thank you @BPDSurvivor I wrote them down 💞

No matter where you are at with your advocacy journey, know that you aren't alone. You have a community of peers here you can draw on for support and strength. Your voice and your story has the power to shape you life and the lives of others.

Even now there are times I need a break from advocacy to focus on my wellbeing, because it can be really tiring! There are times I still doubt myself, but I know that contributing my voice to the larger goal of ensuring a better mental health service for future generations in one step forward that could make a difference

Also @Shaz51 , Mr Shaz sounds like a man of few words.

Hence, what he DOES say should be treated as pearls? And hone in on those few words he says to get the most out of them. It sounds like it's pulling teeth!

It's about careful questioning.

Very good points my @BPDSurvivor

And Mr shaz has another 6 years to retiring

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@Former-Member wrote:

You say tiresome, I say passionate @chibam

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Aww! Thank you so much, @Former-Member

Question 7. Where can I find more information and resources?

There is a wealth of knowledge within the mental health sector and online.

Most states have a peak lived experience advocacy organisation and peak Carer advocacy organisation that you can connect in with. Their newsletters are a great place to hear about all the opportunities to get involved in the sector, including consultations, committees and jobs.

We don’t currently have a National Lived Experience Peak Body, but there are some National organisations that promote opportunities for advocacy including Mental Health Australia and National Mental Health Commission.

Another great resource for resources related to advocacy, representation and sharing your story is My Consumer Place.