ONE Of the first things to change was the name: Forensic Mental Health in Community Health.
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A co-design process between Ballarat Community Health and its clients from the program, predominantly those on a community corrections order or parole, looked at what the name actually meant. From there, they pulled apart and rebuilt a program that together they feel make sense.
Wilanila Barring (pronounced buh-rungi) is an Indigenous phrase to mean changing tracks - and a chance to start a new path for participants.
BCH social support general manager Jane Measday said the co-design process really highlighted a disconnect between what generally runs through a participant's mind and what a clinician might be thinking in a routine appointment.
Unless you sit down and have the conversation, see it from the clients' point of view then you're not really making it about the client.
- Jane Measday, Ballarat Community Health
"It seems so obvious, but unless you sit down and have the conversation, see it from the clients' point of view then you're not really making it about the client," Ms Measday said.
"I truly believe when our clients finish their order and have left the justice system, they can model to others people can change. This was a learning experience for both participants and clinicians - it is a privilege to walk alongside these people and help them change tracks."
A key feature of the program will be peer navigators, like Lee Dunbar and Peter Kennedy, who have been through the service in its forensic format.
They will work with people new to the program to explain in plain language - clinician terms aside - how the program will unfold. They will also work with Corrections Victoria to meet clients early and help build connections.
Lived experience is a strong element in many Ballarat Community Health programs and Ms Measday said this was invaluable.
Ms Measday said from program booklets to clinicians, the emphasis shift was to "be real" and improve connections with clients to make them more comfortable in keeping appointments.
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