What Users Have to Say about their own Organisations: A Local User‐Controlled Study

Abstract

Based on the experience of Wiltshire and Swindon Users' Network, this article presents findings from a small user‐controlled study of members' perceptions of their own organisation. Peer support, information provision and speaking with a ‘collective voice’ emerged as key aspects of their involvement which members valued. Although WSUN provided a range of opportunities for involvement in social care and health services, members identified training and recruitment of professionals and presentations as areas for greater involvement. The study calls for greater recognition of the important role that usercontrolled organisations can play in empowering users on a personal level, as well as bringing about change in social care and health services through effective user involvement.

Citation

Evans, C. and Evans, R. (2004), "What Users Have to Say about their own Organisations: A Local User‐Controlled Study", Journal of Integrated Care, Vol. 12 No. 3, pp. 38-46. https://doi.org/10.1108/14769018200400022