Southwark Day Centre for Asylum Seekers has seen remarkable progress in recognizing and harnessing the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals with lived experience.
Southwark Day Centre for Asylum Seekers has seen remarkable progress in recognizing and harnessing the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals with lived experience. This transformative journey was significantly influenced by the EAR partnership, which empowered clients to actively participate in improving services.
The EAR partnership sparked collaborative efforts to enhance services through research and engagement with clients. Southwark Day Centre allocated a dedicated staff member to work closely with six Experts by Experience (EbE) over an extended period. This initiative provided a platform for exploring various ways in which these individuals could contribute value to the Organisation.
Regular meetings with the EbEs evolved into broader discussions and presentations to the volunteer group. Their impact resonated beyond the Organisation, with successful presentations at South Bank University and even an invitation to present in Parliament by a former MP and a government official. As a result, the EbEs are actively involved in running projects within the Organisation, including a women’s group and working with children and families.
Challenges arose due to the complex lives shaped by decisions made by the Home Office. Some individuals struggled with consistency due to changes in immigration status and housing. However, the initiative’s positive impact on personal development and the fulfilment of aspirations has been significant. Southwark Day Centre adopted an approach that allowed individuals to engage at their own pace to address these challenges.
Southwark Day Centre’s experience offers valuable recommendations for other Organisations. formalising ways for individuals with lived experience to engage within their Organisations can break down barriers and shift power dynamics, transforming them from service recipients to active contributors in delivering services to asylum seekers. This approach fosters collaboration, innovation, and empowerment, ultimately enhancing the quality of support provided.
