Sonja worked in the PHaMs program as a Peer Worker Community Mental Health Practitioner. Joining PHaMs was a pivotal step in her career. It allowed her to leverage her lived experience to provide one-on-one support to participants, helping them access essential services and organisations aligned with their recovery goals. Moreover, PHaMs facilitated much-needed social interaction and life skills development through various support groups.

The Positive Impact of PHaMs

Sonja witnessed firsthand the transformation that PHaMs brought to participants' lives. Many individuals, with the guidance and support of PHaMs, went on to pursue further education or secure employment. Life skills like cooking and budgeting became attainable milestones, and participants reconnected with their communities in meaningful ways.

PHaMs' Practical Support

The heart of PHaMs' success lies in its practical support approach. This program focuses on individualised goals, helping participants interact with their communities, make friends, develop cooking skills, and improve their physical health. The one-on-one life skills and recovery skills support make a significant difference in people's lives.

The Need for PHaMs' Return and Funding

Sonja's advocacy for PHaMs is unwavering. She firmly believes that PHaMs should return and be funded with the same dedication as when it was initially created. “It definitely should be returned and funded with the same ideology as it was created to reach those who have slipped through the services.”

Sonja also emphasises the importance of additional funding, especially for those who require equipment, support for education or recreation, and psychosocial assistance.

Sonja's story underscores the urgency of reinstating and fully funding the PHaMs program.