Who is the CSI NETWORK?

The purpose of thisNetwork is to provide Peer Support workers, among the CELHIN, with the opportunity to discuss, advocate and share resources that pertain directly to Peer Support. The Network organizes formal and non-formal events in which this information sharing takes place. All consumer survivor programs, whether funded through the CELHIN or not, are invited to attend and participate in this Network.

One of the main functions of the Network is to create smaller working groups, with the purpose of focusing on specific areas of need where Peer Support is concerned. These areas of need can include: establishing Best Practices for Peer Support, taking advantage of educational opportunities and improving training for Peer Support.

Voice of the Service Recipient

An advisory group of individuals receiving support from the CELHIN peer support programs will happen formally on at least a yearly basis. It is the intent that the outcomes from these meetings will help determine the work of the Network.

We believe there is incredible value to can be gained from having regular communication amongst all parties involved in Peer Support. By bringing together the consumer survivor clients, the agencies who provide the support and the peer support workers themselves, the work being done will be improved significantly.

Defining Consumer Survivor

We like the definition of peer in a publication entitled Ontario Consumer/Survivor Initiatives: Impact, Outcomes & Effectiveness:

“Consumer Survivor Initiatives are described as run for and by people with mental health problems and/or those who havereceived mental health services. Consumer survivor initiatives (CSIs) embody the principles of inclusivenessand recovery that underlie the current government’s transformation agenda for the Ontario health caresystem. CSIs contribute to desired outcomes by supporting people in their recovery so that they have less needfor formal mental health services.”

CSIs are supportive settings that offer one or more of the following program activities: self‐help groups, one to one support, community‐economic development, education and training, advocacy to create systems‐level change, opportunities for consumer/survivors to develop their skills, the creation and distribution of resources based on consumer/survivor knowledge, and artistic and cultural activities. CSIs are guided by a set of values that include member empowerment/ participation, social justice, asense of community and mutual learning.