Citizens in Partnership - Inclusion or Illusion is the theme chosen for the IIMHL Conference in Ireland in May 2010.

Enjoying the full benefits of citizenship, being active in civil life through employment, housing, engaging in a full social life and making a valued contribution to society.

Mental illness can act as a limiter to embracing all of the rights and responsibilities of living fully within the community as a full citizen.

Too often the persons life becomes constrained by a diagnostic label and their identity subsumed and
overly defined by their health status.

Citizens enjoy all aspects of community living and interact with many governmental and non governmental agencies taking responsibility for their own decisions.

Some agencies may require assistance in fully meeting the needs of citizens with particular mental health needs.

This can be achieved through working in partnership and bridge building.

The cross border partnerships developed through IIMHL can act as a powerful agent
for change and accelerate integration.

Participation must be genuine and real and we can take some time to reflect on our success and limitations in this regard.