Who we are
The Service Users’ Network, (SUN), was set up in 2001 and is run by and for users of Mental Health Services.
We are a group of people who have experienced mental health problems and came together to support each other and to have our voice heard. Mental health problems can affect all people from all walks of life. One in four of us will experience some form of mental health problem in a year. Membership is open to anyone with an interest in mental health.
The SUN group is going from strength to strength. We believe we have a good mental health service on the Isle of Man and are thankful that the professionals welcome us working alongside them to give service users a voice. Bridges are being built and we aim to continue to work hard for the benefit of all service users.
Our aims
- To contribute to the continued development of contemporary, recovery focused mental health services on the Isle of Man
- To raise awareness and challenge the stigma associated with mental illness
Our objectives
- To provide a voice for individuals experiencing mental health problems
- To promote inclusion through challenging stigma and discrimination
- To work in partnership with a range of health, social care and charity organisations to influence policy and the development of quality services
- To participate in the design, delivery and evaluation of professional education and training programmes
- To provide information and support about the importance of mental health and well being to the population of the Isle of Man
The work we do
People who have mental health problems do have a voice, we all work together to find what is the best treatment and help for ourselves. After all, we are the ones who are ill and we know what may work and what may not. We work hand in hand with professionals enabling us to work together which, in the long run, will benefit the Mental Health Service on the Isle of Man.
What can SUN do for you?
Allow your voice to be heard. We offer support and advice, provide information on services available to you. We keep you informed with current information through our regular newsletters.
The SUN group is not all about hard work and no fun as SUN also run a social club which meet regularly. During these evenings we hold different activities and have guest speakers to give talks and demonstrations on a variety of subject eg. complementay therapies, Manx National Heritage, RNLI and war gaming just to name a few. We also have outings and evening meals during the year. For further information about the social club please contact the SUN Social Secretary on 07624 473944.
Become a member
Being a SUN member has great benefits, not only to give you a voice but also to give you a social life so you can be yourselves and have fun with other service users. For members regular visits are made to conferences off-island to increase awareness of Mental Health issues in the wider community. Membership forms can be downloaded from our ‘Downloads’ tab, or please contact us on 01624 616188/07624 457756 for further information.
How you can help
Donations: Are always welcome. Thank you for your support.
