SU4EM Terms of reference

Introduction

The Service User Forum – Wakefield SU4em – will represent and provide support to all substance misuse service users within Wakefield Drug Services.

Membership

The Forum will consist of a maximum of four Representatives from each Treatment Service.

A Representative can be co-opted if agreed by majority of the Forum members from Structured Day Programme, Alcohol, Shared Care and DIP/DRR.

Appointments

Appointments to the Forum will be approved by the Forum members

Tenure

Members' term of office will be an ongoing arrangement.

Arrangements for the Conduct of Business

Chairing the meetings

This will be on a voluntary rotating basis each meeting.

Quorum

To constitute a quorum there must be 3 Representatives in attendance.

Frequency of meetings

The meetings will be held fortnightly.

Authority

The Forum is granted authority by the Substance Misuse Commissioning Group to carry out consultations and peer led research for the strategy and commissioning of substance misuse services in the Wakefield District.

Role and Functions

Role

The role of the Forum is to be a strategic lead and link into the commissioning process on behalf of service users. To develop service user involvement at all levels of engagement within commissioning and provider processes.

Functions

• To support service users within treatment
• To develop service user involvement
• To participate in peer led groups
• To participate in peer led education and awareness
• To participate in commissioning and strategic processes

Relationships and Reporting

The SU Forum is independent but interfaces with SMCG, Turning Point, PCT Provider and NTA

The minutes/recommendations of the Forum will be formally recorded and only disclosed at the agreement of the Forum.

Review of Terms of Reference

These Terms of Reference will be reviewed annually or sooner if required by the consensus of the Forum's membership or in light of national/local policy changes.

04 July 2008