At NNRF, we have been thinking consciously about how we build Experts by Experience (EBE) voices into our services and structure.
Introduction At NNRF, we have been thinking consciously about how we build Experts by Experience (EBE) voices into our services and structure. Through a series of consultations with clients on their previous experience a seed emerged in the form of a communications teams led by those with lived experience. With staff members focused on giving advice there was little capacity for external communications content, this provided a great opportunity to tip the balance of our external content from informative to engaging and EBE lead as well as supporting those involved in the group to maintain and develop their skills for the future.
Enter the Dream Team, a dynamic ensemble of EBEs leading a public platform for clients’ voices and Forum initiatives. Backed by NNRF, this team fuses EBE insights with diverse skills to communicate asylum and refugee experiences, amplifying community issues and cementing our commitment to power- shifting in 2023.
The Dream Team represents the Forum, sharing candid insights into the UK’s asylum system and their own narratives when comfortable. Their mission? Foster empathy, raise awareness, and advocate for asylum seekers and refugees, all while spotlighting the Forum’s role.
From inception, the team crafted their structure, communication focus, and meeting frequency. The outcome? JOY. Amid the Forum’s advice-centred approach, the team illuminated community spirit and vibrant behind-the-scenes moments. Their achievements include crafting a popular birthday video and planning more content releases in the near future.
Working closely with the EAR EbE Coordinator, Ibtissam, on constructing and putting the EbEs at the centre of the group was a major source of support and inspiration. EBE leadership meetings and training sessions fostered unity, enriching roles. Notably, EAR’s leadership training bolstered EBE confidence, enhancing their contributions.
Ongoing challenges include irregular attendance and roles within the group. At the beginning, we had quite a strong regular attendance, but over time, several members have dropped in and out due to health issues, or other commitments. Other challenges we have faced include confidence in the English language, different levels of experience, establishing roles and coming together as a team. As we are still in the early stages and with our EBEs leading such unpredictable lives these barriers were to be expected.
For other organisations taking on this challenge of creating an EBE lead group or project, we would encourage them to make sure you establish the foundations before launching into content creation. Invest in team and relationship building in order to help maintain attendance and improve team cohesion. Don’t be afraid to take creative approaches and back your project when it’s in the beginning stages, watching the project take shape and the team build in confidence each week is worth the initial effort. Our team members are even getting requests to help film for partner organisations, which we are very proud of!