@Bunniekins and all ...this discussion has been an interesting read. This discussion is also a long time coming as @Bow pointed out - there was consultation and several things implemented/tried to be implemented however the resultant 'new' forums became even harder to navigate and more confusing than the previous format. The consultation was primarily in the closed co-design hub with a small number of members of that hub being interviewed/viewing the new format. From my perspective, it did not matter what we as a group came up with, the developers/designers did what they thought.
The idea of the new format/design was to lessen the categories however they seem to be ever expanding with members uncertain of where to post. The closed sub groups can only be accessed via invitation or asking to be involved. There is certainly scope within this section for more closed groups - which could allow for more sub groups to be developed.
There was a trial of messaging 'off forum'. I will openly divulge that I was one of those who trialled this ....after about a week I gave it up. I had to invite people in and this was not carried through from SANE's side so it left me alone ...and very little to no interaction from staff either. I have seen the benefits of this closed space for another member however and believe it would be a great option to continue to pursue for some members. The downside would be a member becoming over reliant on that space for support or seeing it as a personal support space. This space would be moderated by those on shift at the time and therefore ALL of the forum would need to be monitored. If there was no immediate response for a particular member in a closed space then the wider community would not see this member of needing support and therefore could not help out.
There was also talk of an instant messaging space where a member could get short term support off forum - particularly when a message presents as in distress or needs help their peers are unable to provide ie. other services they can use or strategies to help. I believe the format of these forums does not have scope for this - which is disappointing.
I am with most here - I like the anonymity but wondering if there would be scope for those members who would like to meet off-forums to be able to chat in a 'video off' zoom session. This way anonymity could still be maintained but deeper conversations may be had.
Blocking another person is a tricky one but I do see your point @Bunniekins (and all those that have agreed here). What we do have now if the 'Report Post' function and can email the team at SANE. They can temporarily block that member and follow their posts to see if further sanctions are necessary. Sometimes, however, this happens too late for those affected - I do believe the 'Report Post' function needs to be seen as a priority by mods but is often not responded to.
