LIVED EXPERIENCE
AT YOUR SERVICE
People with lived experience can transform service delivery . But they need the right support , says Stacey Smith
While the terminology has changed over the years – with a shift from ‘ service user involvement ’ to ‘ lived exper ience ’ – how the treatment and recovery workforce offers opportunities for people who have experience of substance use and related issues is of great value . Lived experience has become both a buzzword and a cornerstone of recoveryoriented systems of care ( ROSC ) in the UK . The transition from a person accessing a service to a professional working within it is a significant journey , offering opportunities for both personal growth and enhanced service delivery .
This article is based on my master ’ s research at Middlesex University , supported by a bursary from the Society for the Study of Addiction ( SSA ). The study explored the experiences of people with lived experience working in the treatment and recovery sector , focusing on the motivations , benefits , challenges and value they bring to services .
Research highlights the positive impact of peer support , including improved client retention , reduced stigma , and enhanced recovery outcomes . As experts by experience , these individuals bring authenticity and empathy that fosters trust and connection with those accessing services . It ’ s also . prudent for me to point out that peer roles for people with current ‘ living experience ’ are equally of value , for the same reasons .
This qualitative study , conducted through semi- structured interviews and interpretative phenomenological analysis ( IPA ), revealed key themes reflecting the transition from service user to worker .
EMPLOYMENT AS RECOVERY CAPITAL Employment plays a dual role for individuals with lived experience – it provides financial stability while also reinforcing their recovery journey . Participants highlighted how meaningful work enhanced their self-esteem and sense of purpose , describing their roles as vital components of their recovery capital .
RECIPROCITY IN PEER WORK Many participants cited a strong internal motivation to help others , rooted in their own recovery stories . Peer support roles enabled reciprocal therapeutic relationships , benefiting both the practitioner and those they served .
KEY MOMENTS AND MENTORS The transition to employment often involved pivotal moments where their lives took a turn as well as the significant people who provided mentorship and encouragement . These affirming experiences were instrumental in building the confidence needed to succeed in their roles .
CHALLENGES AND STIGMA Despite these benefits participants reported challenges , including stigma – whether in their previous workplaces , from colleagues in the sector or from wider society . Women , particularly mothers , faced additional scrutiny and barriers when accessing services and seeking employment .
To address these challenges and maximise the potential of lived experience practitioners in peer support worker or other roles , several best practices have been identified :
TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Comprehensive training tailored to the needs of lived experience practitioners is essential . Continued Professional Development ( CPD ) opportunities can reinforce skills , self-belief and value within the workforce . Training should also include clear guidelines on professional boundaries to support a healthy working environment .
SUPPORT STRUCTURES Regular supervision and peer mentorship are critical to sustaining the wellbeing of lived experience staff . Accessible policies and consistent support ensure that practitioners feel valued and equipped to manage workplace challenges .
CULTURAL AND ORGANISATIONAL INTEGRATION Integrating lived experience practitioners into multi- disciplinary teams requires a culture of inclusivity . Organisations must actively combat stigma and ensure that all staff – whether they possess lived , living , or learned experience – are respected and supported .
REDUCING STIGMA Beyond internal policies , the sector must address societal and in-sector stigma through advocacy and education . This includes creating inclusive messaging , a mindfulness of terminology , and policies that acknowledge the unique challenges faced by women and other marginalised groups .
The inclusion of lived experience practitioners offers transformative potential for the UK treatment and recovery sector . By valuing their unique insights , providing robust training and fostering inclusive work environments , organisations can harness the expertise of these practitioners to improve service outcomes .
By supporting the transition to ‘ professional ’ staff member , the sector can not only enhance recovery outcomes but also demonstrate the true value of lived experience in building a more inclusive and effective system of care .
Stacey Smith is a consultant , researcher and trainer
This work was made possible by the generous support of the Society for the Study of Addiction , whose bursary enabled me to conduct this research as part of my MSc in mental health and substance use at Middlesex University . staceysmith . co . uk
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