1. Peer leadership

  • The British Columbia Hearing Voices Network (BCHVN) prioritizes the voices and expertise of people with lived experience. People with lived experience determine BCHVN priorities and are empowered to take on leadership roles within it.
  • The BCHVN is non-clinical: clinicians have a place to participate, but the BCHVN is not oriented around clinical treatment or professional development.
  • The BCHVN centers around peer support. We endorse the core values of peer support, as described by Peer Support Canada: hope and recovery; empathetic and equal relationships; self-determination; dignity, respect and social inclusion; integrity, authenticity and trust; health and wellness; and lifelong learning and personal growth. 

2. Community

  • The BCHVN prioritizes social connection and building community, not adherence to a particular way of living with voices, visions, or unique beliefs. 
  • BCHVN activities are based in the community and encourage community participation whenever possible.
  • The BCHVN seeks to promote a sense of belonging and inclusion for all, particularly those whose experiences or identities have been stigmatized.

3. Democracy

  • BCHVN leadership and responsibility are shared between members and decisions are made collaboratively.
  • All members are respected as experts in their own lives with valuable wisdom to contribute.
  • The BCHVN strives to be transparent and accountable. Information is communicated with integrity and in good faith.

4. Openness

  • The BCHVN promotes a non-judgmental stance: members strive to be receptive, active listeners who are sensitive to other experiences and perspectives.
  • The BCHVN aims to learn from new ideas and approaches, as a Network and as individuals.

5. Safety and respect

  • The BCHVN values the wellbeing of the individuals and communities around us. Members strive to treat others with care and kindness, and to be mindful of the many different experiences and backgrounds others carry with them.
  • The BCHVN prioritizes respect for members’ physical, mental, spiritual, and social wellbeing, and the accommodations they may require.
  • The BCHVN recognizes diverse needs and preferences concerning privacy and confidentiality, and strives to respect personal choices and support members to make informed decisions about limits to privacy and confidentiality.

These values were drafted and reviewed collaboratively by members of the BC Hearing Voices Network. Last updated August 31st, 2023.