Vancouver Consumer Involvement and Initiatives

Related topics: Mental health and substance use in Vancouver, Mental health and substance use family, peer and consumer involvement 

The Consumer Involvement and Initiatives is an umbrella program that amplifies the consumer/peer or service user voice within Vancouver Community Mental Health and Substance Use Services, Vancouver Coastal Health. 

The program includes research, representation on boards and committees, and employment opportunities. The overarching program provides recovery support and includes peer-delivered services such as the Consumer Initiative Fund Program, Vancouver Peer Support Program, and Peer Facilitated Workshops. 

• Spotlight on Mental Health website: The Vancouver Consumer Involvement and Initiatives built and maintains the Spotlight on Mental Health Website. The website has information on all involvement and support opportunities offered by the team. Visit the website 
   
• Peer Support: Peer support is emotional and practical support between two people who share a common experience, such as a mental health or substance use issues. A Peer Support Worker has lived through similar experiences and is trained to support others. Learn more
   
• Peer-Led Workshops: The Peer Led Workshops program offers free workshops and support groups led by individuals who have lived/living experience with mental health and/or substance use challenges. Using a Psychosocial Rehabilitation approach, our workshops focus on empowering people to be active participants in their recovery and well-being. 

  Everyone is welcome to attend! View the events calendar

• Consumer Initiative Fund: The Consumer Initiative Fund is a unique and progressive program that funds and supports projects that are proposed, managed, and led by people with lived/living experience of mental illness and/or substance use issues.
• Family involvement: Helps families with resources, education, information, and support, as well as facilitating the inclusion of family in the care of their loved ones.