In late 2020, The Royal launched its 2020-2025 strategy aimed at Co-creating access, hope and new possibilities by integrating lived expertise and experience into all facets of care, education and research. This transformation has recently hit a significant milestone. The Royal’s board of trustees elected Anita Manley, a passionate advocate for mental health and client, to the board on June 24, 2021.
“This is a true cause for celebration,” says Joanne Bezzubetz, president and chief executive officer of The Royal. “When we engage clients and their loved ones into all elements of care, education and research we see better outcomes and more opportunity to make a difference. Anita’s unique perspective will help guide The Royal into the exciting future defined in our 2020-2025 strategy.”
Manley, who struggled with schizoaffective bipolar disorder for many years, often shares her story to inspire hope, raise awareness of mental health and help end the stigma associated with it. She has logged thousands of hours as a volunteer at The Royal, notably as a peer facilitator with Women’s Mental Health. Manley’s popular journaling group is the centre of great discussion with peer and partner institutions across eastern Ontario exploring how the program can be scaled beyond The Royal’s borders.
“Ten years ago, I was an inpatient at this hospital for seven months and within the space of ten years I've become a board member of the institution, it's quite a story,” says Manley. “I eagerly anticipate the challenging work ahead, and I'm incredibly grateful to be the first client representative on the board. I’ll do my best to ensure that I’m not the last.”
Over the years, The Royal’s board of trustees has included caregivers as well as individuals with lived and living expertise. However, Manley’s election signifies the first time that The Royal has brought an individual on board with experience as a client. This important perspective will enable future transformation and Manley is keen to represent the client view on many matters pertaining to the organization.
"Our commitment to co-creation includes all levels of leadership," says Anne Graham, chair of the board of trustees. "The Royal has been working for years to create consistent, equitable, meaningful care and services for people with mental health and addictions needs. We have benefitted greatly from board members with lived expertise. Anita's tremendous background along with her experience as a client will provide an additional richness and perspective to our efforts in that area. By intentionally increasing the engagement and elevation of the client voice and vote in this matter, we create even more new possibilities for the future of mental health care."