I am an expert by experience, involved in various pieces of research and teaching at universities. I use my lived experience of ill mental health to inform research and teaching (Social Work, Psychiatry, Medicine) by considering how we can better meet the needs of vulnerable people. I hope to encourage more and more researchers to prioritise involvement and co-production. 

I have a passion for qualitative research, particularly using real life accounts of experiences to develop a deeper understanding of important issues faced by vulnerable people. In my own studies (MSc Clin. Psychology) I have drawn on Foucault’s work to look at how power features in many of these experiences and the ways in which this can in fact promote hope and healing. 

I am a creative and enjoy ballet and jazz styles of dance, I am soon to teach my special interest - origami - at my local museum for a 'Feel Good Friday' community session, and I regularly paint, craft and make - and give my art away to people, for the joy of it! Photography is also an interest that has featured in my life for many years (I have an SLR, DSLR, and Diana camera) and Photovoice as a method is something I find both fascinating and hopeful.