It was established in 2013 and brings together service users (people with lived experience) and friends, families and carer representatives to influence positive change in Mental Health services. The Wales Mental Health and Wellbeing Forum (formerly the National Mental Health Service User and Carers Forum) are a group of people with lived experience of mental health issues and their friends and families. We directly influence decision making at a local and national level including Welsh Government, Health Boards, Local Authorities, and local organisations. Some of the issues we are addressing include; Stigma and Discrimination, Su***de Prevention, Care and Treatment Planning, Ending Coercive Practice and Electro Convulsion Therapy (ECT), and campaigning for a more “whole person - whole life” people led approach. We are a welcoming group who support each other and would like more people to join us who can bring their unique experiences to the Forum. The Forum is led by its members and normally meets at least 3 - 4 times a year with additional working groups for those who want to be more involved. If you would like to get involved in the forum or to find our more please email mhforum@practicesoltuions-ltd.co.uk, call 01443 808060 / 07563 928694. The Forum is made up of:
4 x members from the seven Health Boards across Wales (via the Local Partnership Boards)
10 x independent members recruited nationally to ensure that the forum reflects the diversity of the people of Wales and the range of their experiences. The NPB oversees the delivery and implementation of Welsh Government’s, Together for Mental Health – A Strategy for Mental Health and Wellbeing in Wales and its Delivery Plan.
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Practice Solutions provides the forum with support through a co-production model. Practice Solutions work with the forum members and partners to help them generate the best possible outcomes for those with lived experience with mental health and for those who are carers. Practice Solutions supports the forum to develop national guidance, facilitate conversations between individuals, carers, partner organisations and Welsh Government to influence and inform policy activity and we supports the forum to recruit across a wide range of individuals in order to provide representation across demographics groups.
