Course Description

This course title is a reflection of the presentation that forms the majority of this course’s content. The emotional and physical stresses that may arise from the burden of caring for and supporting someone with a diagnosis of mental illness can be a very heavy load. The current use of the term “carer” is disliked by many of our members and alternatives might include: family members, nearest relatives, friends, buddies and befrienders, supporters, next of kin, nominated decision makers, and whatever someone may feel best describes their situation.

Whilst there has been great movement in establishing a forum for service user rights, many families, friends and others who support those who are using mental health services feel that little recognition is given to them, either in terms of the importance and value of their role or in practical pathways to ensuring that they are allowed to contribute to the care and treatment plans for those they care about.

The services often rely heavily on their input and support, but it is felt that any rights they might have are often ignored. International evidence on recovery shows that good supportive relationships with families and friends are an essential component of improved outcomes.

This presentation seeks to demonstrate the differing attitudes towards service users rights and the rights of those who care about them. We hope that it will provide food for thought and that the short questionnaire will be helpful in clarifying some of the relevant issues.