User empowerment 9

How I became a User Consultant

(this article appeared in Diverse Minds Issue 4 October 1999)

Since the launch of Down to Earth User Group at Waltham Forest Black People's Mental Health Association [WFBPMHA] in 1997, one of our group's primary aims has been to explore opportunities through networking and information exchange. No amount of preparation could have made us ready for the excellent prospects that came to some of our members!

Okay, I'll spare you the gory details. Instead, I'll give you highlights - ah lots of those - and the ‘spots of bother' for want of a better phrase. Credit is due to all those involved who have a genuine interest in the development of the Group and empowerment of individuals within it - not just as a token User Group.

Not only have we had a computer donated - but we have started signing our own cheques, to determine where we go for respite - and when we have service user led workshops of our own.

Personally, my involvement with the user movement, which came as a result of genuine support from various individuals, effective networking and my thirst for more information, has seen me shift my focus from the local needs for services onto a more regional outlook. Needless to say, I still touch base at my day centre, because for me that is the only effective way to keep in touch with reality. Yes, I was well-taught and warned that it could take over my life, but after lying low, being nearly helpless and always feeling done to for 5 years, I want more information!!!

The money side of things has improved too. I cherish one of my teachers' words. She once said: "You have graduated now. I think you can plan our next training course."

Yeah, that's me now. This was after an intensive journey which was kick-started by the establishment of a User Group and nurtured by supportive groups and individuals who include - yes, none other than Valerie Graham, the Diverse Minds Outreach Officer. In fact, my now acclaimed creation of a training model for mental health professionals was a direct result of Valerie putting me into contact with an established Black consultancy firm [New Perspectives] who were looking for interested Black survivors of mental health services to influence staff training.

Not only are staff attitudes and training a high item on the regional (London) agenda, but I can't get over Valerie saying to me in her distinctive voice "Dominic, these guys also pay your expenses."

That was as good an incentive as any for me to re-assert myself, while talking about what I know, ‘cause as they say: "Who feels it knows it." So, with the support, this kind of encounter and effective networking, here I am writing about what a successful six months it's been. Not only am I now valued in money terms, I am in consultation with the NHS Executive and other statutory agencies, but I feel that my experiences with mental health services have opened a new career avenue which incorporates my acting, marketing and other life skills.

Dominic Makuvachuma Walker

Down to Earth User Group

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