From Experience to Action: Transforming Mental Health Services in Grampian
My feeling is that physical mental health should be treated like physical health, which I don't think it is, and it certainly hasn't been, I don't think, during the pandemic, physical and mental health are just as important.
Ever thought about how real-life experiences can shape mental health services? In this episode of 'Making Recovery Real', Andrew, Amanda, and Liz sit down with Holly from the Scottish Recovery Network to discuss the Grampian Public Empowerment Group's mission. This group isn't just talking; they're actively working to modernize mental health and learning disability services through co-production. That means they're using the real, lived experiences of their members to drive meaningful change.
Amanda shares her personal journey within the group, emphasizing the importance of investing time and energy into participants. She hopes that every voice in the group will be heard and acted upon. It's not just about sharing stories; it's about making those stories count in shaping better services. Liz highlights how using one's own experiences can attract like-minded individuals and help the group grow organically.
Andrew talks about the challenges of maintaining a diverse membership and keeping the group's momentum going. The conversation also touches on a crucial point: treating physical and mental health equally. Andrew points out that this hasn't always been the case, especially during the pandemic. The group's efforts are a step towards changing that imbalance. This episode is a testament to how co-production can transform traditional consultation approaches. It's about more than just talking; it's about creating real, lasting change.
If you're interested in how lived experiences can drive progress in mental health services, this episode is a must-listen.