This report summarises the findings of a consumer consultation with people using the Wellness Connect program, focused on understanding experiences of psychosocial support and what meaningful outcomes look like from a lived experience perspective. The consultation was designed to inform both service improvement within Neami and broader conversations about evaluating psychosocial support programs.
Through a facilitated in‑person workshop, participants shared their experiences of accessing support, building relationships with staff, engaging in groups, and navigating complex and often unmet needs over time. Strong themes emerged around the importance of trust, continuity, relational support, and having time to feel safe enough to share what matters. Participants also highlighted the challenges of time‑limited services, the impacts of broader life stressors such as housing, finances and trauma, and the value of flexible, person‑centred approaches.
The report also captures consumer perspectives on how success in psychosocial programs should be measured. Participants emphasised that outcomes need to reflect what helps people grow, feel understood, and strengthen their sense of agency, rather than relying on narrow or judgement‑based measures. Their feedback outlines key principles for trauma‑informed, transparent and collaborative outcome measurement that recognises the complexity of people’s lives.
