Hi, I’m Sophie, an Expert by Experience (EbE).
While receiving treatment and approaching discharge, Penny, a Provider Collaborative Case Manager, kindly mentioned the opportunity of becoming involved as an EbE and offered to connect me with Lara, the Provider Collaborative Participation Lead). From that point on, I’ve embraced every opportunity to work alongside the team whenever I can.
I became an EbE because of my own lived experience, both in inpatient settings and through my ongoing work with the community team. It became clear to me that, although there is a lot of incredible work happening, there is still space for growth in how truly person-centred care is delivered. It means everything to me to contribute to this growth, to use my voice and lived insight to help shape and improve the experience for others who are still in the thick of it.
Since becoming an EbE, I’ve welcomed every chance to contribute. I’ve felt listened to, respected, and truly valued. Being involved in something so meaningful has had a huge impact on me - it's been a key motivator in my own continued recovery and has given me a renewed sense of purpose.
Getting involved
So far, I’ve been involved in strategy meetings, supported the development of EbE training materials, and had the opportunity to sit in on interviews. In every experience, I’ve been treated as an equal voice, and that’s made me feel like I’m making a real difference, giving something back in a way that feels both fulfilling and empowering.
I believe passionately that care must be personalised. No two people are the same, and no single approach will work for everyone. It’s crucial that services recognise this and that those of us with lived experience are part of shaping care that truly reflects this reality. By working alongside the team and reflecting on my own experiences, I hope I can help influence care that feels more supportive, more compassionate, and ultimately, more hopeful for others.
Becoming an EbE has helped me in ways I never imagined. It’s kept me focused and connected to something that truly matters. I feel like I’m contributing to a cause that’s deeply close to my heart. While I may not have always had a consistent experience in services, being able to help create better experiences for others is incredibly rewarding.
Personal and professional growth
Looking ahead, I hope to build a future as a health and nutrition coach, specialising in eating disorder recovery. Everything I’m doing now, every conversation, every meeting - is helping me grow personally and professionally. I'm meeting inspiring people I never would have had access to before, and learning from them is a gift I deeply appreciate.
If there’s one thing I hope you take away from hearing my perspective, it’s this: We are people. We are not just diagnoses, statistics, or incident reports. Behind every file and every plan is a life, a story, and a person with their own needs, fears, and hopes. That’s why person-centred, flexible, compassionate care matters. None of us, staff or patients, have done this before. We’re all learning, and that’s okay. What matters is that we listen, reflect, and evolve together so we can continue to improve care and hold space for recovery that’s truly possible.
