A new statewide research report, Changing lives: The Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect centre family carer lived experience workforce story, has been released by RMIT University and the Family and Carer Research Advocacy Network (FaCRAN), with funding from the Victorian Department of Health and support from the Collaborative Centre.
The report captures the voices, experiences and expertise of Family Carer Lived and Living Experience workers across Victoria’s eight Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect centres. Drawing on interviews, focus groups, workforce surveys and on-site engagement, the research explores who makes up this workforce, how Lived and Living Experience informs practice across diverse roles, and what supports are needed to sustain and grow this vital part of the mental health and wellbeing system.
Findings highlight the unique value of Family Carer Lived and Living Experience–led practice in strengthening access to care, supporting worker wellbeing and recovery, and building trust with families, carers and supporters. The report also outlines practical, evidence-based recommendations to guide workforce development, supervision, training, leadership and service design into the future.
This research provides a strong foundation for improving how Family Carer Lived and Living Experience is recognised, supported and embedded across community and clinical settings in Victoria.