Blog
REFOCUS working hard to inform training of future psychiatrists
The REFOCUS (Recovery Experience Forum of Carers and Users of the Services) Committee has been working hard to inform and influence all aspects of College business particularly the training experience of young future psychiatrists.
In 2016 it was decided that the group and the College would benefit from the inclusion of psychiatrists in REFOCUS; both trainee psychiatrists and consultant psychiatrists. Originally comprising of 10 people with experience of the Mental Health services, 10 of their Carers/Family Members, and Joint Chair and Consultant Psychiatrist Dr Anne Jeffers, the committee has expanded to reflect the actual life situations of all parties involved when someone is unwell. The mix of the forum is now 8 people with experience of the Mental Health services, 8 Carers/Family Members of those who use the services, and 8 Psychiatrists; all of which will contribute to rich and meaningful discussion and subsequent activities to support the aims of REFOCUS.
REFOCUS also took part in a number of activities including presenting at the Annual Educational Meeting for the Hospital Pharmacists Association, the Professionalism Stakeholder Workshop for the School of Pharmacy within RCSI and conrtibuting to a HSE Scoping Project on suicide and homicide. Members of the Committee also worked in collaboration with the College at annual College conferences, the annual Spike Milligan Public Speaking Compeition, and the Walk and Talk with Psychiatrists as part of Green Ribbon Month.