Activity and views of service users involved in mental health research: UK survey.
BACKGROUND
Optimisation of the process and outcomes of service user involvement in research is dependent on understanding current practice, challenges and opportunities.


OBJECTIVE
To describe activities, roles and experiences of service users involved in mental health research.


METHODS
National cross-sectional online questionnaire survey, using snowball sampling. Descriptive statistics and framework analysis undertaken collaboratively with a service user reference group.


RESULTS
The survey revealed a previously undescribed, highly qualified service user research workforce. Positioned within and alongside mainstream research, respondents reported drawing on extensive service use, and passion for service improvement to challenge perceived clinical academic dominance of research. The support of peers was crucial to involvement, which typically enhanced mental health but for some, pervasive stigma and scrutiny undermined self-confidence and practical difficulties challenged equitable participation.


CONCLUSIONS
Recognition of the service user research workforce will support the constructive amalgamation of academic and experiential expertise needed to shape and realise investment in mental health research.
Sue Patterson, PhD, Metro North Mental Health - Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, Queensland Australia; Jenny Trite, North London Hub, Mental Health Research Network, Central and North West London Foundation Trust, London, UK; Tim Weaver, PhD, Centre for Mental Health, Imperial College London, UK.
Sue
S
Patterson
Sue Patterson, PhD, Metro North Mental Health - Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, Queensland Australia; Jenny Trite, North London Hub, Mental Health Research Network, Central and North West London Foundation Trust, London, UK; Tim Weaver, PhD, Centre for Mental Health, Imperial College London, UK.
Jenny
J
Trite
Sue Patterson, PhD, Metro North Mental Health - Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, Queensland Australia; Jenny Trite, North London Hub, Mental Health Research Network, Central and North West London Foundation Trust, London, UK; Tim Weaver, PhD, Centre for Mental Health, Imperial College London, UK.
Tim
T
Weaver
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008603:Mental Health; D008875:Middle Aged; D010358:Patient Participation; D012106:Research; D057545:Social Stigma; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D006113:United Kingdom; D055815:Young Adult