Networks of Caring: A Qualitative Study of Social Support in Consumer-run Mental Health Agencies

This article examines consumer-run agency participation by adults with psychiatric disabilities. Using qualitative data from 10 intensive interviews, the purpose was to explore personal meanings attached to agency membership, and understand the lived experiences of participants. A grounded hermeneutic approach was utilized to analyse results. Findings reveal that individuals balance agency utilization and external peer network development. Organizational factors previously found related to social network enhancement (e.g. empowerment and emphasis on supportive services) were confirmed here. The emergent narratives captured in this study suggest that these agencies function as low-demand, accepting, safe, and sheltering environments while offering opportunities for human connection, shared agency ownership and community. Finally, access to otherwise unavailable peer-focused ‘networks of caring’ was of utmost importance to participants. Implications for the organization and delivery of services are addressed. Social workers and other mental health professionals seeking to maximize community integration and develop natural supports for clients should explore consumer-run agencies.