Acknowledgement of Lived Experience

“We acknowledge the people today with Lived or Living Experience of mental distress, and ill-health. Their strength, resilience and determination adds value to our communities, and deserve to be recognised for the adversity they continually overcome through their bravery. May their voices be amplified, working to inform our practices and cultures surrounding

We must also recognise and pay respects to those who have paved the way in Lived Experience roles, and have worked tirelessly to progress the Peer Workforce movement, and who are continuing to develop our framework. We stand on the shoulders of giants, so may we continue to honour those who came before us. It is because of you that Peer Leaders continue to emerge.

We also acknowledge those who love, have loved, and support someone with Lived or Living Experience, and recognise the significant role they play in that person’s life, also understanding the particular set of challenges faced in these relationships. To love and support someone experiencing mental distress requires a uniquely beautiful set of characteristics that are highly valued by many.

The work we have yet to do can only be done by amplifying voices of Lived Experience that have already been brave enough to speak. Let us honour them in the work we do every day.”