Following 11 years of the National Service User Awards, we are pleased to announce that from 2024 the awards will be known as the National Lived Experience Awards. The decision has been made over the course of the last year, with input from focus groups, staff, experts by experience, and award nominees and winners.
The change in name was initiated by a focus group in 2023, who voiced that the term ‘Service User’ was one that they didn’t all relate to. They suggested three alternative names which were listed online between October and December 2023 for individuals accessing services to cast their votes. There was also an opportunity to vote at the 2023 Awards Ceremony.
We hope that the all-new National Lived Experience Awards will reach even more people this year, whilst still keeping the magic alive that has been a stand-out feature of the awards over the last 11 years.
“This welcomed name change represents how far we have come as a sector and opens a new chapter for this important ceremony as it was chosen by the people for the people, during last year’s event.
“Language is important and the new name of the awards enables a more inclusive and accessible event which is not defined by attendees experiencing using a service, but through celebrating lived experience of all kinds”. Raf Hamaizia – Expert by Experience Lead at Cygnet.
Once again, we are looking for individuals accessing mental health, learning disability or autism services nationwide to get involved. More information about these opportunities and the National Lived Experience Awards 2024 will be announced in the coming weeks.
If you have any questions about the awards, you can contact us by email on [email protected].