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