Program principles

When you engage as a Community Voice Parter, we ask you to commit to the Program Principles below. We ask the organisations you engage with to do the same!

These principles were co-designed in partnership by organisations and Community Voice Partners. The principles ensure that engagement is based on ethical and authentic relationships.

I’m learning to turn my vulnerability into power through an outlet where I’m respected and my input matters.

— TasCOSS Community Voice Partner

Community Voices Program Principles

We partner because we…

3 Value the diverse tapestry of the community 3 Seek to increase our knowledge of different subjects and experiences 3 Know that decisions affect people who are not always at the table 3 Are committed to a process of ongoing improvement based our own and others’ experiences

When partnering with diverse perspectives it is important to…

3 Listen actively and respond thoughtfully with an appetite for understanding and respectful curiosity 3 Welcome and respect our differences 3 Ensure everyone is supported to contribute on their own terms 3 Integrate opportunities for self-reflection

We value people by…

3 Sharing vulnerabilities and experiences without fear of judgement 3 Building empathy by being present, patient, kind, and compassionate 3 Participating constructively with purpose and ensuring everyone is heard 3 Acting with good intentions

As partners we will…

3 Be self-aware and accountable to doing our best 3 Be genuinely open to learning from new perspectives, especially those which may challenge our views 3 Create a safe and supportive environment 3 Trust the process and our partners 3 Allow space and time for others with a willingness to compromise 3 Examine power, bias, and privilege