Capable consumers have developed knowledge from their experience and are able to represent the views of others.

The key characteristics of a capable consumer are:

Experience:
consumers have an experience of cancer either as a patient, carer, family member or survivor

Motivation:
consumers are motivated to participate in a largely voluntary role to improve outcomes for others

Capability to meet the environment:
consumers develop their skills and capabilities to meet the requirements of the role

Understanding of context:
consumers develop an understanding of the health context where they are involved, and the types of consumer involvement

Learning and development:
consumers undertake learning and development opportunities, including conference and forum attendance and co-authoring  journal articles, to build their expertise in consumer participation

Support and networks:
consumers seek support through connections with consumer organisations, networks and support groups

Mentoring:
consumers encourage and support other consumers to actively participate and develop in the role of consumer representative

Knowledge, skills and experience
for consumers