Working together: a consumer participation research project to develop a new model of high-support housing.

Abstract

This paper outlines a participatory approach to developing a new model of service delivery for high-support housing. A consumer committee was recruited from among the inpatients and outpatients of a large psychiatric hospital in Metropolitan Toronto. Their task was to analyze three existing models of high-support housing, using structured interviews and visits, and to develop a new approach. The discussion focuses on the participation experience itself. A number of strategies were employed to reduce the traditional barriers between professionals and consumers. Using both the research results and the consumers' impressions of their experience, these strategies were evaluated for their efficacy.