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Current service philosophies of Social Role Valorisation, the advent of the self advocacy movement and new legislation have all contributed to the current emphasis on consumer views being sought and used in shaping service delivery to ensure it is individualised. However, how 'consumer participation' can be achieved and just what it means is not always clear. The article criticises consumer participation strategies (e.g. Individual Program Plans) which still render the consumer in a dependent role and which do not elicit a true consumer perspective. Strategies which ensure strengthening the role of the individual in service delivery are provided. Keyword: Individualisation