Phillippa

How did you ‘have your say’?

My support worker, Eva, could see that I was getting bored and cynical at home but had loads of ideas and opinions (that’s never been a problem for me!). She suggested I join the London Regional Service User Group - RSUG for short.

What’s a regional service user group?

That’s ten or so service users who meet every two months in central London and give feedback on MST projects, policies and plans. It’s a way for MST to make sure changes make sense and to get ideas in return. There are other similar groups of users who meet around the country.

What could I get from joining a regional service user group?

You can meet other people who aren’t necessarily going through the same thing, but have an understanding of what you are going through. That helps. And the confidence you get when working together as a team, when we can see that we’re making ourselves heard and that we’re making a difference... it’s made me feel I can go on and do other things. I still have ups and downs, but being involved has made a difference.

How did you become a board member?

I heard about the opportunity through the regional service user group. I applied at the last minute, because the more I thought about, the more it sounded like a good idea.
I hear that about 30 other users applied for the post too, which is encouraging for the future. MST laid on some special training about what the role would involve. That helped my confidence that I could really do it, if selected. On the day of the interview I was very nervous but I must have managed to talk sense. I got the good news a couple of days later.

What’s it like being a service user on the Board?

All the people on the Board are highly qualified. But, sitting round that table, I’m the expert on being a service user. And you, all the service users in MST, are the experts in receiving your support. You know when something’s not right or could be done better. Don’t just grumble, tell MST! Your views could lead to improvements for everyone. If you have the time, get involved with an MST group and have your say.

Your support worker will come with you if you want. You will certainly meet new people, learn new skills that you can add to your CV and, as your confidence grows, you will make a difference. I’m not going to be a tame service user on the Board. Make sure your voice is heard too!

Find out more about ways to get involved.

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Fast fact

Every year, MST supports over 5,000 people to live independent lives.

 

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