Experiences of User Involvement in Mental Health Settings: User Motivations and Benefits

Neech, Sophie G B, SCOTT, Helen, PRIEST, Helena, BRADLEY, Eleanor and TWEED, Alison (2018) Experiences of User Involvement in Mental Health Settings: User Motivations and Benefits. Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing. ISSN 1351-0126

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Abstract or description

Introduction
Despite guidance promoting user involvement, meaningful involvement continues to be debated within services. To effectively implement involvement, it is important to acknowledge why users devote time to such activities.

Aim
This study explores user representatives’ experiences of involvement, including motivations and personal benefits.

Method
Thirteen user representatives involved in activities such as staff training and interviews were recruited from a UK National Health Service mental health Trust during 2015. Themes within semi‐structured interviews were developed using constructivist grounded theory analysis. Memo‐writing, process and focused coding, and core categories supported development of the conceptual framework of being a user representative.

Findings
Being a user representative was inextricably linked to wellness, yet staff governed opportunities. Making a difference to others and giving back were initial motivating factors. Experiences depended on feeling valued, and the theme of transition captured shifts in identity.

Discussion
User representatives reported increased confidence and wellbeing when supported by staff. However, involvement triggered mental health difficulties, and identified need for regular monitoring and reflection of involvement activities and practice.

Implications for practice
Services should consider coproduction, where users and staff agree together on involvement definitions. Dedicated involvement workers are crucial to supporting individual wellbeing and monitoring involvement.

Item Type:	Article
Additional Information:	** From Crossref via Jisc Publications Router. "This is the pre-peer reviewed version of the following article: Neech, Sophie G B, SCOTT, Helen, PRIEST, Helena, BRADLEY, Eleanor and TWEED, Alison (2018) Experiences of User Involvement in Mental Health Settings: User Motivations and Benefits. Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing. ISSN 1351-0126, which has been published in final form at doi.org/10.1111/jpm.12466 . This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance with Wiley Terms and Conditions for Use of Self-Archived Versions."
Faculty:	School of Life Sciences and Education > Psychology
SWORD Depositor:	JISC pubrouter
Depositing User:	JISC pubrouter
Date Deposited:	22 Jun 2018 15:08
Last Modified:	24 Feb 2023 13:51
URI:	https://eprints.staffs.ac.uk/id/eprint/4524

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