Experts by Experience (EBE)

An EBE is a volunteering role and those appointed use their experiences of mental health services – as a service user or a carer of someone experiencing mental health difficulties – to influence the delivery and quality of services we provide.  They also help represent the interests and views of other local service users and carers, and promote involvement and co-production opportunities within the Trust. To find out more about our Experts by Experience, please click here.

Meet the EBEs

Cogged Naomi cogged Razia
                 Naomi Ball                              Razia Chaudhry
cogged David Clarke Cogged agnes
               David Clarke                               Agnes Wallwork

We’re always looking to take on new EBEs!

What does an EBE do?

Here are some of the activities our team will get involved with:

  • Attend strategic meetings e.g. Trust Board, Integrated Governance Committee.
  • Participate in focus groups on the development of policies, strategies and improvement plans.
  • Review of patient information.
  • Participate in the recruitment process for Trust staff.
  • Build links with local service user & carer, community and voluntary groups (including ‘under-represented’ communities) to help extend involvement in the Trust.
  • Promote Trust co-production and involvement opportunities to the general public.
  • Support other services users and carers at mental health forums and Trust events out in the community.
  • Undertake training opportunities, alongside staff, that are offered within the Trust e.g. equality & diversity, safeguarding, information governance.
  • Help to shape Trust vision and values.
  • Meet on a monthly basis with other EBEs to discuss current topics of interest.

What is it like to be an EBE?

“It is very rewarding being an EBE and you get that feel-good feeling when you have helped someone.”

“I became an EBE a while back to help improve services for the future, as I had a bad experience as a carer. I don’t want others to have the same bad experience that I did. It is also time for me to give back to my community and help others.”

“Being an EBE is full of variety! I enjoy working with people and providing them with a voice so that they can have a better experience when using services.”

What can I expect/how can I apply to be an EBE?

All of our EBEs support us for 12 months, although of course you are entitled to leave the role earlier should you wish to do so. Your EBE involvement may vary depending on the amount of time you are able to commit to the role. Our EBEs provide us with valuable input which helps us keep the patient at the centre of everything we do. If you wish to be considered as an EBE, please request an application form from matthew.petchey1@nhs.net.