Local resident shares mental health journey ahead of World Mental Health Day
As organisations across the world prepare to mark World Mental Health Day on 10 October, Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (NSFT) is highlighting the importance of listening to people with lived experience through the story of Great Yarmouth resident Shaun.
Shaun has experienced a number of challenges throughout his life, including physical health difficulties, caring responsibilities, bereavement and his own mental health struggles. During these difficult times, he says the support he received played an important role in his recovery and helped him move forward.
His experiences inspired him to become involved with the Great Yarmouth and Waveney Service User and Carer Council, where people with lived experience help influence and improve mental health services.
Shaun said: "Even small acts of kindness can make a big difference to someone's confidence and wellbeing."
Reflecting on his involvement with the council, he added: "People with lived experience bring valuable insights into what works well and where services can improve."
The Service User and Carer Council provides opportunities for people who have used services, or cared for someone who has, to share feedback, contribute ideas and help shape future developments. Shaun believes involving people from the outset helps create services that better meet the needs of local communities.
As World Mental Health Day shines a spotlight on the importance of mental wellbeing, NSFT is encouraging people to recognise the value of lived experience and the role it plays in improving mental health support.
Cath Byford, Chief Patient Experience Officer and Deputy Chief Executive at Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, said: "World Mental Health Day is an opportunity to recognise not only the importance of mental health and wellbeing, but also the value of listening to the people who use our services and those who care for them.
"Shaun's story demonstrates the powerful contribution that people with lived experience can make in shaping services. Their insight helps us better understand what matters most to the communities we serve and ensures we continue to develop services that are compassionate, effective and responsive to people's needs.
"We're incredibly grateful to Shaun and all members of our Service User and Carer Councils who generously share their experiences to help improve mental health care for others."
Shaun said: "I'd really like to see more opportunities for people with lived experience to have their voices heard, stronger partnerships between communities and services, and co-production becoming a normal part of service development."
Anyone interested in finding out more about their local Service User and Carer Council can visit the NSFT website or email councils@nsft.nhs.uk.