The Department of Developmental Disability Neuropsychiatry (3DN) was established by the Chair of Intellectual Disability Mental Health in 2009. The Chair is funded by Ageing Disability and Home Care, Family and Community Services NSW and the Mental Health Branch, NSW Ministry of Health.
3DN is part of the School of Psychiatry within UNSW Medicine. We champion the right of people with an intellectual or developmental disability to the same level of health and mental health care as the rest of the population. We promote a standard of excellence in clinical practice, research, workforce development, education and policy in the field of intellectual and developmental disability mental health.
Our Vision
The highest attainable standard of mental health and wellbeing for people with an intellectual or developmental disability.
Our Mission
To improve health policy, practice, and supports for people with an intellectual or developmental disability, with a focus on mental health and wellbeing.
Our Guiding Principles
Human rights
People with an intellectual or developmental disability have the right to the highest attainable standard of health and mental health care. We undertake all work with the intention to promote this right.
Equity in mental health care
People with an intellectual or developmental disability have the right to equitable access to mental health services, delivered by an appropriately skilled workforce. We undertake all work with the intention to promote this right.
Excellence and academic leadership
As a centre of expertise, we provide high-quality advice and promote excellence in clinical practice, research, education, and policy.
Knowledge translation
We add to the body of knowledge through research and analysis and translate our findings into benefits for people with an intellectual or developmental disability. We encourage the use of sound evidence in the implementation of improved practices in all areas.
Respect
We acknowledge the expertise of people with a disability in their own experience, and demonstrate this respect through consultation and collaboration with people with an intellectual or developmental disability and relevant lived experience.
Collaboration
We value the multidisciplinary context of our work. We actively engage stakeholders to share expertise and promote integrated systems in health and disability. We actively seek the participation of people with an intellectual or developmental disability, and we value our collaborations with those who provide support.
Ethical conduct
We act in accordance with the human rights of people with an intellectual or developmental disability, with professional and industry codes of conduct and practice, and with the guiding principles in this strategic plan.
Strategic Plan 2016 to 2021
Read more about how we are working to achieve our mission in our strategic plan.