We kick started the project with a two day meeting in London. The format of the course was ‘designed’ and the way forward planned. In the afternoon of the second day we held a shared learning event for around 100 people, explaining our project and what Psychologically Informed Practice is. Some of us presented, alongside some other invited guests. Scary as it was presenting to a room full of clinicians, I did a 45 minute presentation called ‘The need for change: a patient story’ and Carole’s patient story was also presented. Impressively our patient stories were rated highly by the audience! It was great to put our thoughts across.
Two of the group, Rebecca and Anna, took the lead in developing content, but they always kept the rest of the group up to date and fully involved us. As patients Carole and I challenged some ideas, contributed our own and helped ensure the patient voice was both at the centre of our discussions, and the developing training. I am sure we have had an impact on the development of the training, and I am sure the training will be all the better for including our patient voice.
It has been a privilege to have actively supported the creation of course materials. I have written some materials for the training course, providing a patient perspective on topics. Carole and I have been involved in the co-production of patient vignettes/case studies which will be used in experiential learning sessions.
I don’t know how unique it is to have patients truly co-producing training materials with clinicians, but it is certainly unique for me.
The first delivery of the training started in September 2020, and Carole and I continue to be involved in reviewing the training and making suggestions for improvement. Due to COVID-19 the training was delivered online.
Health Innovation Network and the clinicians involved in the project have been amazing to work with. My involvement in this project is something I truly value. I hope I have helped make a difference!