The collaborative secured the Hope and Positivity Award, with Gracie Haward, an Expert by Experience, winning for her Distress Management Booklet. This peer-to-peer resource, developed from Haward's own lived experience, offers practical emotional support tools for young people facing distress and is now implemented across South West Tier 4 CAMHS inpatient units.
This award highlights the transformative power of lived experience in creating practical resources that positively impact young people's care. It underscores the importance of providing opportunities for Experts by Experience to shape services and enhance care quality.
Furthermore, the Family Ambassador Service was a finalist in the Community and Collaboration Award, reflecting the ongoing support provided by Family Ambassadors to families with children receiving care within Tier 4 CAMHS services in the South West.
Hayley Johnson and Lucy McMahon, Experts by Experience involved in the Perinatal Siblings / Think Family project, were also finalists for the Outstanding Leadership Award. Their involvement emphasises the crucial role of lived experience in understanding the broader effects of perinatal mental health issues on mothers, children, and the entire family unit.
These accolades signify national recognition for the South West Provider Collaborative's commitment to valuing lived experience and embedding meaningful co-production. From developing resources with young people to involving families in service design, Experts by Experience continue to be instrumental in improving care across the region.
