The Queensland Lived Experience Workforce Network (QLEWN)
QLEWN is a statewide peak body led by, with, and for the Lived Experience workforce within the mental health, alcohol and other drugs, and suicide prevention sectors.
Our vision is to enable Lived Experience workers to lead the ongoing development of and support for the Lived Experience workforce across Queensland. Sector leadership, opportunities for skills development, and systems-level advocacy are our focus areas.
QLEWN recognises all people who have experiences of mental and emotional distress, suicidal thoughts and crises and those who care for and support them as they do their best to navigate challenging times. YOU ARE NOT ALONE. We also recognise those who struggle with alcohol and substance use and who have experienced trauma, poverty, homelessness, oppression, and marginalisation as a result of these experiences.
At QLEWN our goal is to keep all Lived Experience workers at the centre of all we do in our advocacy and support so that you and your journey can be a little smoother. You are our inspiration, our reason for working and investing our time and passion into this work.
Background of QLEWN
QLEWN was started at a grassroots level by a group of passionate Lived Experience professionals who had experience working as, and with, other LE workers in a State, National, and International context. A unanimous agreement was held that the workforce lacked representation, had significant unmet needs and problematic issues in training and development. QLEWN was established as a starting point to address these issues.
The Workforce
Learn about The Lived Experience Workforce and roles
Our Work
See some of our past work to understand who we are, and what we do
Join Us!
QLEWN is driven by the passion, enthusiasm, and commitment of our volunteer Management Committee, members, and supporters. Please be aware that our capacity is limited, and we do deliver as much as we can while we continue to build opportunities for future funding.
One of the most important things we can do right now is show that Lived Experience workers across Queensland are committed to ensuring our workforce is developed by us, with us, and for us. Becoming a QLEWN member might seem like a small step, but together we hold power. As a collective, we can influence the decisions that shape our work, our values, and our future. To explore how you can be part of this movement, visit our Membership page.
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