Improving cultural responsiveness in mental health services: development of a consensus around the role of cultural portfolio holders.

A range of service development initiatives has been implemented in Australia to improve the cultural responsiveness of mental health services. In Victoria, cultural portfolio holders (CPHs) are responsible for leading service development activities that address the needs of individuals and families from different cultural backgrounds. The aim of this research was to obtain consensus from CPHs around how their role contributes to improving the cultural responsiveness of mental health services. Information from a literature review and a focus-group discussion with 13 CPHs was used to develop a survey. All CPH network members were then invited to participate in an online study that collected background information and consisted of two surveys. Consensus was reached regarding 42 statements. These concerned activities undertaken by CPHs within services and with other organisations, the position of CPHs within organisational structures and the potential for further developing the CPH role. Cultural portfolio holders have the potential to lead service reforms that can improve an organisation's cultural responsiveness. To do so they require the support of organisation-based leaders and a statewide transcultural mental health service. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]