“Making It Happen”: Supporting the Implementation of Positions for Experts by Experience in Mental Health Education

Abstract

Significant changes to mental health policy have positioned consumers of mental health services as active participants in all aspects of service design and delivery, leading to the development and expansion of consumer workforce roles (Experts by Experience [EBE]). Negative attitudes of health professions pose a major limitation to the success of these positions. EBE involvement in mental health education has shown favourable outcomes, particularly enhancing more positive attitudes. Unfortunately, these positions remain limited in number and scope and have largely been supported by individual clinical academic champions (allies). This article presents findings from a qualitative study, involving individual interviews that explored the experiences and perceptions of allies who supported the implementation of academic positions for EBE. Data were analysed thematically. “Making it happen” was the overarching theme identified. It comprised the sub-themes: strategic or opportunistic?; developing an argument; using evidence; showing what EBE bring; getting buy-in and utilising existing relationships. The articulation of these processes provides a useful guide to other allies interested in supporting the implementation of these positions. The implementation of further positions will ultimately improve the attitudes of other health professionals towards Expert by Experience roles.

Acknowledgements

The authors extend their sincere thanks to the research participants. Thanks for devoting your time to share your experiences of working with EBE in mental health education.

Ethics approval

Ethics approval was granted by the University of Newcastle Health Research and Ethics Committee, approval number: H-2020-0007.

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflict of interest.

Funding

No funding was received for this research.