Consumer measures and research co-production: a pilot study evaluating the recovery orientation of a mental health program collaboration

A clinical service and a community-managed service have collaborated to deliver a service supporting people with severe and enduring mental illness and complex needs. This study aims to evaluate the recovery-orientation of the service by menas of a consumer-led program evaluation utilising validated measures and qualitative interviews. The Recovery Self-Assessment (RSA) and the Recovery Enhancing Environment measure (REE) indicated that the things done well included goal setting and monitoring, practical assistance and encouragement. Things to improve were access to records; variety in treatment options; contributing to advisory boards; and support regarding sexuality, spirituality and relationships. Consumers interviewed peer-to-peer actively engaged with the evaluation.