Purpose:

Hearing Voices Network Groups are based firmly on an ethos of self help, mutual respect, and empathy. They provide a safe space for people to share their experiences and support one another. They are peer support groups, involving social support and belonging, not therapy or treatment. Groups offer an opportunity for people to accept and live with their experiences in a way that helps them regain power over their lives.

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Respect:

Hearing Voices Network Groups welcome the diversity of experiences and views of their members. Rather than seeing one belief system as more valid than another, all explanations for voices and visions are valued. There is no assumption of illness. Groups recognize that members have expertise to contribute to the group, no one member is more important than another.

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Flexibility:

All Hearing Voices Network Groups are centered around the needs and aspirations of their members. Rather than being focused solely on voices and visions, group members are welcome to talk about any issue that is important to them.

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Ownership:

Hearing Voices Network Groups recognize the importance of being user-centered and are user-led. Each member has an important part to play in determining the direction of the group, keeping it healthy, and upholding the ethos.

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Confidentiality:

All Hearing Voices Network Groups should be as confidential as possible. What is discussed in the group should stay within the group.