Developing and Facilitating a Lived Experience Training Program for Mental Health Families and Friends, Tasmania
At Folket Consultancy, we enjoy working on projects that support communities and individuals. This case study shares a recent collaboration with Mental Health Families and Friends (MHFFTas) in Tasmania. The project aimed to develop and implement a comprehensive training program for existing and new Family and Friend Representatives participating in the Family and Friend Representative Program (FFRP). Our approach involved co-designing the training program alongside a lived experience focus group, ensuring that the content, structure, and delivery methods were tailored to the needs and preferences of the representatives.
Advocating for Mental Health Families and Friends in Tasmania
Mental Health Families and Friends Tasmania (MHFFTas) is the state-wide leader in advocating for the importance and visibility of mental health and alcohol or other drugs (AOD) families and friends in Tasmania. Their work is informed by the lived experience of the mental health and or alcohol and drug support person.
The Family and Friend Representative Program (FFRP) supports family and friends of individuals dealing with mental ill-health and substance use by leveraging their lived experiences to advocate for change in mental health decision-making and policy development. Recognising the need for enhanced training to equip representatives with the necessary skills and confidence, Rahnee Butterworth, Lived Experience Project Officer at MHFFTas, sought help from Folket Consultancy to develop a training program. The initiative was designed to enhance advocacy outcomes and elevate the voices of family and friend representatives in shaping service development and delivery.
Designing a Tailored Training Program Design for Mental Health Advocacy
Collaboration is a guiding principle for Folket Consultancy and every project starts with an explorative session to understand the needs of the client, key objectives and goals. Following this, we design the process and preferred methods to achieve the right outcomes. In our work with MHFFTas, co-designing the training program was the key method to make sure the output would be informed by lived experience.
Folket Consultants Danielle O’Hara and Linda Karlsson were part of this project, each providing expertise in workshop design, facilitation, community engagement, and communications strategies.
The project involved a set of stages:
Co-Design Sessions: We conducted two co-design sessions with a lived experience focus group, consisting of representatives and stakeholders. These sessions provided valuable insights into the necessary training content, modes of delivery, activities, and facilitation skills.
Research: We conducted research to ensure the training content was evidence-based and aligned with organisational goals.
Program Design: Using the insights gathered, we developed a comprehensive training program for the FFRP. This included creating an outline, structure, and learning materials for participants and facilitators.
Feedback and Refinement: Through iterative feedback loops with the focus group and project managers, we refined the training materials to ensure relevance, accessibility, and engagement.
Stakeholder Engagement: Understanding Diverse Perspectives
An integral part of our approach was mapping stakeholders' interests, concerns, and needs. Through interactive sessions and group discussions, we explored the perspectives of representatives, facilitators, MHFFTas, and other stakeholders. This collaborative process enabled us to design training that addressed a wide range of concerns and preferences.
Refining the Training Program: Feedback and Implementation
The training program was piloted with MHFFTas representatives. Feedback from participants and facilitators was crucial for making necessary adjustments. This iterative approach allowed for the content to be further co-designed and tailored to ensure relevance and effectiveness.
The training program was structured into several interactive sessions, each focusing on key aspects of effective advocacy:
Effective Advocacy:
Techniques and strategies for impactful advocacy.
Communication Skills:
Enhancing interpersonal and public speaking skills.
Trauma-Informed Practice:
Understanding and applying trauma-informed approaches.
Self-Care:
Strategies for maintaining personal well-being.
Through a mix of group discussions, scenarios, films, and worksheets, participants engaged in hands-on learning experiences tailored to their needs and learning styles.
Feedback Highlights:
The training program was well received.
Participants felt well-equipped with the knowledge, confidence, and understanding necessary to fulfill their roles effectively.
The training was praised for its relevance, practical application, and engagement through activities and scenarios.
Amplifying Voices, Enabling Change
Our collaboration with MHFFTas was an excellent opportunity to co-design a training program informed by lived experience using a mixed method of focus groups with iterations of testings and feedback loops. By amplifying the voices of family and friend representatives, we contribute to positive change in mental health service delivery and policy development. We look forward to continuing our partnership with MHFFTas and supporting their mission to create a more inclusive and supportive mental health landscape in Tasmania.
For more information about Folket Consultancy and our expertise in developing tailored training programs and facilitating community engagement initiatives through co-designing, please contact us.
About Folket Consultancy
Hej! "Folket" is Swedish and means "The People", think 'folks' in English. We’re a boutique consultancy based in lutruwita/Tasmania. Founded by Linda Karlsson, Folket Consultancy is a collective of experienced consultants. Our team of folks love to work on collaborative projects that create an impact in our communities. Between us, we offer expertise in evaluation, research, facilitation of workshops and community consultation, co-design and program development, community and stakeholder engagement, as well as strategic communication. We tailor our team and services to your needs. Do you think you have a Folket job? Let’s explore how we can collaborate, contact Folket Consultancy here.