Evidence Library
Title: More than 'involvement'. How commissioning user interviewers in the research process begins to change the balance of power.
Author: Godfrey, M.
Date Published: 2004
Reference: Practice, 16(3), 223-231
Are service users or carers authors: No/Not Known
Abstract:
Aim: This paper describes a small study, undertaken as part of an MA, to obtain the views of social workers, service users and carers about the reconfiguration of mental health services and their experience of care in the commmunity. As part of this study, the author commissioned a mental health service user to undertake interviews with other users.
Method: Four users were interviewed by one service user. She was trained and supported by an advocacy worker from a local mental health organisation.
Findings/recommendations: One of the key findings from the study was the lack of information providers to users. The author reflects on the process of trying to recruit interviewees and recruiting a service user interviewer. He then draws on a range of other papers to consider the value of service users acting as interviewers. He argues that there is not enough evidence to demonstrate that user interviewing is more effective than 'professional' interviewing, and suggest ways that this evidence might be obtained. He also calls for training and support to be made more readily available so that users can undertake their own research.
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Related entry: none currently available
Categories: social care
reflecting on public involvement in research
journal article
Date Entered: 2007/03/30
Date Edited: 2012/12/06
Additional Info: