This Mental Elf podcast is part of the NHS Research Scotland Mental Health Network's Annual Scientific Meeting, 7th November 2024. 

Host Douglas speaks with Dr. Veenu Gupta, Assistant Professor at Durham University, about the burgeoning role of the Lived Experience Workforce in mental health research. Dr. Gupta, who has personal experience with psychosis, shares insights into how lived experiences inform and shape research, training, and clinical practices.

The discussion delves into the historical context of lived experience roles, the challenges and benefits of integrating personal experiences with professional work, and the various roles within the lived experience workforce. Dr. Gupta also highlights findings from her PhD research, emphasising the importance of support, supervision, and balancing the power dynamics in research settings.

Tune in to learn about the evolution, current landscape, and future directions of lived experience roles in mental health research, as well as practical advice for both researchers and lived experience professionals.

00:00 The Evolution of Lived Experience Roles in Mental Health Research

00:34 Meet Dr. Veenu Gupta

02:16 Veenu's Journey and Research Focus

05:24 Challenges and Evolution in Lived Experience Roles

08:08 Historical Context of Lived Experience Work

12:18 Different Lived Experience Roles

15:54 Support Needs for Lived Experience Researchers

18:33 Future Directions and Support for Lived Experience Workforce

21:37 Final Question: Advice for Researchers and Health Professionals

21:46 Importance of Lived Experience in Research

22:35 Balancing Power Dynamics in Research

23:23 Challenges and Emotional Labour in Lived Experience Roles

25:46 Introduction to Q Studies

28:15 Feedback and Impact of Research

Further reading:

• Gupta, V., Eames, C., Golding, L. et al. Understanding the identity of lived experience researchers and providers: a conceptual framework and systematic narrative review. Res Involv Engagem 9, 26 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40900-023-00439-0
• Gupta, V., Eames, C., Bryant, A. et al. Identifying the priorities for supervision by lived experience researchers: a Q sort study. Res Involv Engagem 10, 66 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40900-024-00596-w

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