The consumer-run business: people with psychiatric disabilities as entrepreneurs

Consumer-run businesses create job opportunities for people with psychiatric disabilities through the production of goods and services for sale to the community. The success of the consumer-run business is determined by the extent to which it is economically viable, owned and operated by persons with psychiatric disabilities, enhances the well being of its individual members and strengthens the consumer community. This paper provides an overview of the consumer-run business as it has emerged in the area of mental health. It describes the limitations of traditional rehabilitation services approaches which have served as a catalyst for the development of these businesses. It outlines the key characteristics of the consumer-run business. Finally, the paper argues that the consumer-run business represents a fundamental shift away from vocational rehabilitation service models.