Advice for lived experience researchers

Researchers with lived experience of mental health problems have insights that others do not, using our voice to generate knowledge. We notice things that others miss, such as how the layout of a focus group reinforces power imbalances inherent in the mental health system. Our ethos is ‘doing with’ rather than ‘doing to’. Identifying as a peer in a research project can reduce barriers between us and participants, developing a supportive atmosphere based on having similar lived experiences.

People who live with the day-to-day challenges associated with their mental well-being may experience some difficulties in a research career. This is an emerging profession and there are few role models. We may face stigma and discrimination because of our experiences, or risk having our other professional/personal identities minimised. We also face additional emotional burden when reflecting on our insights and experiences, some of which have been troubling or traumatic. Supportive management structures and peer support are essential.

5 REASONS WHY THOSE WITH LIVED EXPERIENCE MAKE GOOD RESEARCHERS

  1. We have essential knowledge, experience and skills not always found among those without lived experience.
  2. We have a particular investment in research outcomes – they will influence us and our communities.
  3. We know how inaccessible research can be, and can help keep language accessible to all.
  4. We are well placed to understand reflexivity. Thinking about your position in relation to the work you're doing is an important part of the research process.
  5. The trust and communication that flows between people who have shared similar experiences is invaluable.

TAKE THE NEXT STEP

There are a variety of roles open to people with lived experience working as researchers. The career structure may not be as well defined as it is for other professions. We have found that many roles are freelance, ad hoc, contracted or low paid. Roles mainly exist in universities and in the charity sector, though many of us work independently. Some of us got into research through first being involved in Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) activities, or by taking part in research as a participant, although this is not always a pre-requisite for a research career. Many people get involved through local user led or community-based organisations. Other people have taken a more traditional route through universities.

Talk to others who are using their lived experience via research networks

Seek out placement opportunities via the research networks

Look out for Research Assistant (RA) positions which ask for lived experience

LANGUAGE NOTE

Many lived experience researchers will describe themselves in different ways. Peer, survivor, consumer researchers are all terms that have subtle differences in meaning. On this site we use the term 'lived experience researcher'.