Living with Lived Experience Short Films

Overview

In 2022, the West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership identified a significant lack of awareness and understanding of mental health issues among the workforce. Patients reported feeling misunderstood and unsupported, and service data showed inconsistent care quality. To address this, they collaborated with Forum Central, The University of Leeds, various voluntary, community or social enterprise (VCSE) organisations, and film-maker Jack Ballinger. Together, they co-produced six videos with individuals who have lived experience of complex mental health issues. The aim was to create impactful resources for staff induction and raise awareness across the Health and Care workforce in West Yorkshire.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the project were:

• To co-produce six videos with people who have lived experience of mental health issues.
• To enhance the induction process for the Community Mental Health Transformation (CMHT) workforce.
• To increase awareness and understanding of mental health issues among the wider Health and Care workforce.
• To involve a diverse range of participants and organisations across West Yorkshire.

Approach

Six West Yorkshire organisations co-produced six 10 minute films addressing the different stages of the mental health journey. This was done through hearing the stories of 112 people with direct experience of Serious Mental Illness who shared their experiences of receiving support. Over 30 hours of footage was produced and refined into six videos, following the stages of the mental health journey, as defined by Professor Stephen Coleman, including: describing mental health (film one), seeking help (films two and three), trust and listening (films four and five), and coping (film six).

Results

The project successfully produced six short films, which were launched at the University of Leeds on June 5, 2023. The films have been viewed hundreds of times and have been instrumental in raising awareness and improving the induction process for new CMHT staff. Feedback from participants, staff, and viewers has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the films’ role in fostering understanding and empathy. The project was recognised nationally, earning runner-up status at the PENNA Awards in the category of Engaging and Championing the Public. Additionally, the films have been shared widely in the lead-up to World Mental Health Day, reaching over 3,500 members of various networks and forums.

Lessons Learnt

One of the key lessons learned was the importance of flexibility in planning and execution. Initial timelines were ambitious, and the actual process took longer than anticipated. However, providing support to participants throughout the filming process proved crucial for their comfort and willingness to share their stories. Collaborating with VCSE organizations for participant engagement and support was highly effective.

Recommendations

For colleagues undertaking similar projects, it is crucial to:

• Allow ample time for planning, filming, and editing.
• Provide continuous support to participants to ensure their well-being.
• Engage with local organisations to leverage their expertise and networks.
• Use a framework like the Theory of Change (ToC) to guide the project, but remain adaptable to changes. The ToC tool should be developed based on current understanding of how things work, and include how and why change is going to be achieved. It can be updated as the programme evolves.

Overall, the project not only met its objectives but also provided valuable insights and resources that will continue to benefit the mental health community and workforce in West Yorkshire.

Contact Information

Gary Blake, Training & Development Manager for Community Mental Health Transformation, gary.blake@nhs.net