A Uniting consumer for more than a decade, Lahrissa now shares her lived experience and expertise in the Eastern Family Services Advisory Group and in monthly meetings with our Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) services.
“I’ve always believed the most effective and compassionate services are those shaped by the people who use them. “I initially got involved in consumer partnerships while accessing Uniting’s South East Catalyst Program, a non-residential rehabilitation program for people trying to stay away from and cease AOD use. “Drawing on tools I learnt from the Catalyst program helped me to realise the value of my lived experience and I became excited about how my unique story could make a difference.”
Lahrissa describes how she translates her fears into opportunities to challenge herself and grow her capabilities. “I took on an opportunity to sit on a staff interview panel for the first time. I felt self-doubt, imposter syndrome … but with supportive staff and a mutual understanding that it’s quite okay to feel the way I was, it turned into a really great experience. With my contribution, the right candidate was chosen.
“My personal values align with Uniting’s and it’s what drives every contribution I make.
“Consumer partnering has taught me that healing isn’t just about mending what’s broken, it’s about building bridges, forging connections and working together to create a system that reflects the needs and strengths of the people it supports.”
Learn more about consumer partnerships.
*This is a true story about real people. The photo accompanying this story is for illustrative purposes only. It is not a photo of the people featured in this story.
