EmpowerED recently hosted a celebration event to honour the remarkable contributions and dedication of Experts by Experience from over the past year.

Celebration event 1.jpgThe Experts by Experience and Carers came together with senior leaders from the Lead Provider Collaborative, friends, and family members.

Held in recognition of the invaluable input provided by Experts, the event was a testament to the collaborative’s commitment to improving and shaping vital services across the North West.

At the heart of the celebration, which took place amidst an atmosphere of gratitude and unity, was a special performance by the talented artists from Jelli’s Studios, a dance company based in Liverpool. Dancers and musicians from the studio dazzled the audience with their artistry, adding a touch of creative flair to the event.

Through dance and music they highlighted the importance of supporting mental health. Isla Wilson, Chair of the Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the Experts by Experience and their substantial impact on the Collaborative’s work.

Isla said: “The event was our chance to celebrate the incredible work of our Experts by Experience to improve and shape vital services across the North West. They’ve shared their experiences, wisdom, passion, and importantly, their willingness to challenge us at the highest level of decision-making.”

Celebration event 2.jpgThe EmpowerED Experts by Experience are playing a pivotal role in shaping specialised mental health services across the North West. Their lived experiences have provided invaluable insights and perspective which will be harnessed to improve the quality of care.

The EmpowerED Adult Eating Disorders Lead Provider Collaborative Expert by Experience Celebration event was not just a moment of reflection but also an acknowledgment of the potential for change when individuals come together with a shared purpose.

It was a day to celebrate accomplishments, inspire further progress, and, most importantly, recognise the resilience and strength of those who have faced eating disorders and emerged as powerful advocates for change.