Departmental Role:
My role is to facilitate the involvement of Experts by Experience (people with lived experience of mental health and neurological conditions) in the training of clinical psychologists. My teaching and research focus is the theory and practice of involvement work. In addition, I have a research interest in practical ways to manage psychosis, depression and OCD.
With a background in social work (University of Bath) and a later MSc In Mental Health (University of Brighton), I have experience of both mental and physical health problems. I have found that within personal lived experience of health conditions and using NHS services lies knowledge that professionals need, enabling them to offer sensitive and skilled care.
Main areas of responsibility
Since 2009, I have been responsible for chairing the SAGE committee (Salomons Advisory Group of Experts by Experience). I have developed and facilitate the SAGE network of people with lived experience who come from the four NHS trusts in our region. I teach and support the inclusion of Experts by Experience in selection, assessment and research activities.
Current Interests
I have my own research interests which include the practice of involving people with lived experience in the design, delivery and dissemination of research projects. Until June 2022 I was National Lead for Expert by Experience Involvement: Psychological Professions. This gave me a national platform to support the inclusion of people with lived experience across psychological profession training.