Being a consumer representative can be hard work especially if you are the only consumer representative, or if you are on a committee who has not had a consumer representative before or your role is to give the appearance of consulting with consumers. It is worth reflecting on your role and your expectations for your committee work. Talk with your nominating organisation about your difficulties and frustrations. You may need to decide if it is time to ease yourself out and let a new representative take over.

If you feel that your appointment was a public relations exercise, you should try to change attitudes by demonstrating your ability as an effective committee member. Get advice from your nominating organisation if the problem persists.