From Data to Dialogue: Practical Methods for Community-Led Research
Learn how community-led research turns local stories into solid evidence that decision-makers respect. We explain easy methods (story circles, asset mapping, peer research and analysis) that let lived-experience data shape real policy change. Perfect for anyone searching practical tips on participatory research and community engagement.
Is it Research or Is it Community Engagement?”
Learn the key differences between community engagement and community-led research: power dynamics, trust-building, and why solid relationships, not just datasets drive meaningful, evidence-based change. Perfect for anyone asking “how do I do good community research?”
If You’re Not at the Table, You’re on the Menu
For too long, lived experience in mental health has been seen as something to be consulted rather than something that drives leadership. Co-production models have been a step forward, but they often stop short of real power-sharing. The future of mental health advocacy, peer support, and service design lies not just in co-production but in lived experience leadership.
Improving mental health – so many options, what works?
The focus of #WorldMentalHealthDay is the importance of addressing #MentalHealth and #Wellbeing in the workplace.
Often mental health leaders unintentionally overwhelm workplaces and communities with choices, expecting audiences to wade through the vast array of options and accompanying jargon.
Let's look at proven ideas to improve mental health in your organisation.
Using Peer Research to investigate whether cannabis a net positive for mental health
Peer Research and lived experience helps uncover deep insights regarding cannabis use for improving the mental health of stigmatised users.
‘We know we’ve been making an impact, but it’s hard to capture’: How an outcomes harvest can help your evaluation
‘We know we’ve been making an impact, but it’s hard to capture’: How an outcomes harvest can help your evaluation
The Finnish alternative: Embracing ‘Open Dialogue’ and community in mental health
In a time of crisis, the UK’s psychiatric system can seem more coercive than caring. Family members also talk about being excluded from information and care plans, whilst simultaneously being expected to support their loved one’s care.
Open Dialogue is focused on a rapid response, family relationships and consistent support networks. It stresses that everyone involved in a person’s care should focus on inclusivity, collaboration and transparent communication.
View from afar… a review of different mental health care initiatives
The thoughts and experiences of mental health services in London from the Chair of the EUCOMS Network, specialising in facilitating mutual learning and support for community mental health care across Europe.
Investigating peer expertise, collaboration between NHS and charities, and learning processes from the various organisations visited.
Nurturing healing: A deeper look into trauma-informed care
More and more is written about trauma-informed methods, yet there’s still no clear understanding of what it means.
Find out about what makes care trauma-informed, its benefits, and how organisations and services can benefit from adopting it into their practice.
Motivational Interviewing in peer support: Handle with care!
In certain therapeutic settings, MI has its benefits and can be a valuable tool. In the world of peer support, we need to tread carefully and avoid it inadvertently leading to coercive practices. Here’s why: