Noticeboard
A space for sharing innovative thoughts, ideas and experiences.
"...anybody who stretches the boundaries, tries something different, is marginalised. But to be the outsider can be a great privilege, almost an honorary distinction."
- Steven Berkoff in 'Up Front' The Observer (7/8/05)
The concept of recovery wasn't always
greeted with instant enthusiasm
"The strategic big picture has its place, but the reality is located in the detail."
'Good practice' in mental health is ensuring people do not come into contact with mental health practice.
Thanks to Toby Williamson for reminding me of a quote from the recent film 'Solaris' - 'There are no answers, just choices.'
In conversation with Nev Pettitt (Daventry CMHT Team Leader) we were pondering what all the fuss about a 'seamless service' was for, as it can only give you a monotonous one-piecejig-saw - we need to be giving more quality attention to the 'seams'.
In a recent Service User 'Leadership' training course (30/3/04) I suggested one of the themes for the day should be 'Empowerment is for life, not just for meetings!' It should start with the whole approach of mental health services to the individual, not just as a token gesture through invites to committee meetings.
Just the other day I was chatting with Bismarck (a Support Worker in the Haringey Assertive Outreach team) over lunch, when he was reminded of a saying: ‘When two elephants are fighting it’s the grass that gets damaged’. Think of your experiences in mental health, and make of this what you will.
This conversation took place on 7th January 2004, but sadly Bismarck passed away early in January 2005 having recently been diagnosed with cancer
'Allow yourself the luxury of doubt.'
- Will Self in the Observer magazine 11/1/04
Feel free to 'email Steve' to present your ideas and views. Within reason, they can be placed (and referenced to you) here on the Noticeboard.