How will parties support Lived Experience if elected?
Over the last 12 month, Changing Minds has asked the Lived Experience community what they wish politicians, policy makers and officials knew about prejudice, self-stigma and distress, ahead of the 2023 general election. Using this knowledge, we have written to each of the political parties currently in Parliament to hear their views on four questions.
We are sharing an open copy of our letter, and will share any responses we receive. Our goal is for our community to have access to relevant information. We believe the election is a powerful way for people with Lived Experience to use our voices to create systemic change, but information in the lead up to an election often doesn’t directly address issues that matter to us.
Download a copy of our letter here, or read below.
Tēna koe,
How will your party support people with Lived Experience if elected?
Changing Minds is a national not-for-profit organisation, proudly led by Tāngata Mātau ā-wheako, people with their own journeys of mental distress, substance use or addiction. We embrace the mana of these Lived Experiences as a source of collective strength to activate equitable wellbeing across all of Aotearoa.
On behalf of our community, we are writing to political parties to hear your views on the following questions, informed by Changing Minds community research, kōrero and engagement over the past 12 months.
If elected, how will your government challenge – and make a positive difference to – the prejudice, discrimination and self-stigma faced by people with Lived Experience of mental distress, substance use or addiction?
What does equitable and visible Lived Experience leadership within the health system, and mental health decision making, look like under your government?
What is your party vision to enable community-based mental health services, and community-led mental health networks and supports?
How will your government be accountable to the above outcomes, visions, and communities?
We believe one of the most powerful ways the Lived Experience community can create positive systemic change is to vote. Our goal is to ensure the community has access to information about issues that matter to them this election. We will share any responses you can provide with our community.
You can find out more about Changing Minds and our mahi at www.changingminds.org.nz.
Attached are some of the key messages our community want YOU to know about the challenges, benefits, and insights of experiencing mental distress, addiction or substance use in Aotearoa.
We hope to hear from you. Any questions can be directed to our communications team at communications@changingminds.org.nz.
Nāku iti noa, nā
Changing Minds Team
Changing Minds