We need user/survivor research now more than ever before

2006 Conference

Service user involvement in research and user-led research each have their own strengths and weaknesses, which this presentation will outline. However, the central aim of this session is to address the major changes taking place in the production of public research which, I believe, may be endangering our (service users’) research future:

• The new Research Networks: to what extent are they committed to promoting service user involvement in research?
• The new NHS Research Strategy: is it creating a climate favourable to user involvement in research — or does its focus underline the need for us to pursue our research agenda elsewhere? And if so, where?
• The push towards working with industry: how will this work for service users – if at all?
• The UKCRC: to what extent are service users contributing to the structures influencing the future of research production?

Authors

Faulkner ~ Alison

Independent Service User Researcher. Alison Faulkner works as a freelance researcher, trainer and consultant in mental health. Much of her work is connected with involving mental health services in research. Alison also has experience as a user of mental health services and has written and presented extensively on the subject of mental health services from a user/survivor perspective. She is currently working with the National Survivor User Network (NSUN) National Involvement Partnership to develop national standards for involvement.

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