The History of the Service Users Group

Back in 2000 the first Service Users Group based at 9 Oxford Road was established. However, its aims and objectives were of a different nature; at that time the future of the project at 9 Oxford Road was in serious jeopardy through lack of funding and the service users were active in highlighting the importance of the work done here and the need for continued financial support of such projects. Their campaign also involved raising awareness of the help available, both to professionals who may consider making referrals to the project and possible clients for self-referral.

In 2002 the Service Users, led by Mike G and Barrie D, set up the 0% Proof Self-Help Group, which was based at 9 Oxford Road. At this time Alcohol Concern received funding for the purpose of assisting such groups within England, Scotland and Wales. From this budget 0% Proof were awarded a grant of £2,000 a year for two years.

As the term of the grant came to an end the Group was faced with the question of where future funding could be obtained. Phoenix Group Homes, the charity responsible for the alcohol project at 9 Oxford Road, were also keen to see the group continue. In the growing climate of the involvement of service user groups within organisations, our group agreed that this could be the way forward. As a service user group which is part of 9 Oxford Road, Phoenix Group Homes would be in a position to grant us funding.

At our AGM in 2005 it was agreed that the group would change from a Self-Help Group to a Service User Group, effective from 1st April, 2005. A management team comprising a Chairperson, a Vice-Chairperson, a Treasurer, a Secretary and an Assistant Secretary would represent the members, all of whom would continue to actively participate in our monthly meetings.

We are also very lucky to have a core of long-time members who are able to give some of their time and skills to the group. They provide stability and give encouragement and hope to those newer to the project.

During the first year the new Service Users Group, now led by Lorraine and Jackie, developed steadily, establishing its quarterly newsletter to achieve good communication with members, and conducting surveys to ascertain the views and ideas of the membership on the future of the group. Communication with our members is also achieved on our own notice board and via our message board, email address and suggestions box. An annual competition was introduced to provide an image for our Christmas card. Support at meetings has increased with the introduction of activities following the business of the meeting and our themed social activities have become very popular with members.

We are now in our third year as a service user group and once again our service provider, Phoenix Group Homes, has awarded us a budget to take us through to 2008.