While the terminology has changed over the years – with a shift from ‘service user involvement’ to ‘lived experience’ – how the treatment and recovery workforce offers opportunities for people who have experience of substance use and related issues is of great value. Lived experience has become both a buzzword and a cornerstone of recovery-oriented systems of care (ROSC) in the UK. The transition from a person accessing a service to a professional working within it is a significant journey, offering opportunities for both personal growth and enhanced service delivery.
This article is based on my master’s research at Middlesex University, supported by a bursary from the Society for the Study of Addiction (SSA). The study explored the experiences of people with lived experience working in the treatment and recovery sector, focusing on the motivations, benefits, challenges and value they bring to services.
Research highlights the positive impact of peer support, including improved client retention, reduced stigma, and enhanced recovery outcomes. As experts by experience, these individuals bring authenticity and empathy that fosters trust and connection with those accessing services. It’s also prudent for me to point out that peer roles for people with current ‘living experience’ are equally of value, for the same reasons.
This qualitative study, conducted through semi-structured interviews and interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA), revealed key themes reflecting the transition from service user to worker.
Employment as recovery capital
Employment plays a dual role for individuals with lived experience – it provides financial stability while also reinforcing their recovery journey. Participants highlighted how meaningful work enhanced their self-esteem and sense of purpose, describing their roles as vital components of their recovery capital.
Reciprocity in peer work
Many participants cited a strong internal motivation to help others, rooted in their own recovery stories. Peer support roles enabled reciprocal therapeutic relationships, benefiting both the practitioner and those they served.
Key moments and mentors
The transition to employment often involved pivotal moments where their lives took a turn as well as the significant people who provided mentorship and encouragement. These affirming experiences were instrumental in building the confidence needed to succeed in their roles.
Challenges and stigma
Despite these benefits participants reported challenges, including stigma – whether in their previous workplaces, from colleagues in the sector or from wider society. Women, particularly mothers, faced additional scrutiny and barriers when accessing services and seeking employment.
To address these challenges and maximise the potential of lived experience practitioners in peer support worker or other roles, several best practices have been identified:
Training and professional development
Comprehensive training tailored to the needs of lived experience practitioners is essential. Continued Professional Development (CPD) opportunities can reinforce skills, self-belief and value within the workforce. Training should also include clear guidelines on professional boundaries to support a healthy working environment.
Support structures
Regular supervision and peer mentorship are critical to sustaining the wellbeing of lived experience staff. Accessible policies and consistent support ensure that practitioners feel valued and equipped to manage workplace challenges.
Cultural and organisational integration
Integrating lived experience practitioners into multidisciplinary teams requires a culture of inclusivity. Organisations must actively combat stigma and ensure that all staff – whether they possess lived, living, or learned experience – are respected and supported.
Reducing stigma
Beyond internal policies, the sector must address societal and in-sector stigma through advocacy and education. This includes creating inclusive messaging, a mindfulness of terminology, and policies that acknowledge the unique challenges faced by women and other marginalised groups.
The inclusion of lived experience practitioners offers transformative potential for the UK treatment and recovery sector. By valuing their unique insights, providing robust training and fostering inclusive work environments, organisations can harness the expertise of these practitioners to improve service outcomes.
By supporting the transition to ‘professional’ staff member, the sector can not only enhance recovery outcomes but also demonstrate the true value of lived experience in building a more inclusive and effective system of care.
Stacey Smith is a consultant, researcher and trainer
