The Queensland Lived Experience Workforce Network (QLEWN)
QLEWN is a state-wide 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 our focus areas.
Recognition of People's Lived and Living Experience
QLEWN recognises that all people who have experiences of mental and emotional distress and suicidal thoughts and crises and those who care and support them are doing their best to navigate challenging times. YOU ARE NOT ALONE.
We recognise those who struggle with addictions and who have experienced trauma, poverty, homelessness, oppression, and marginalisation as a result of these experiences.
It sure is a journey, that we know is better walked together with people who care. There are many ways that can help.
Our Lived Experience Workforce, have been there, and whilst some say they are still Living it , the road has become easier; there is HOPE that this part of your journey will too pass.
You are the reason we, as a workforce, do what we do. We keep you at the centre of all we do in our advocacy and support so that you and your journey can be a little smoother.
Thank you for being you and trying your best to navigate these difficult experiences in this often harsh environment of life. You are our inspiration, our reason for working and investing our time and passion into our 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 volunteers, members, and supporters. Our capacity is limited until we secure recurrent operational funding, but we do deliver as much as we can for our workforce, and you can find out what we've been up to on our News & Events page.
One of the most important things for us to do at this time is demonstrate the interest that Lived Experience workers in Queensland have in ensuring that the development of our workforce is always led by us, with us, and for us. Joining QLEWN as a member might seem a small thing, but as a group we can ensure that the Lived Experience workforce leads on the matters that concern us; collectively, we are influential. To explore our membership options, please have a look at our Membership page.
