Rethinking ‘evidence’: towards survivor-led understandings

Author:
BERESFORD Peter
Journal article citation:
Open Mind, 171, March 2012, pp.6-7.
Publisher:
MIND

Evidence-based policy and practice involves a whole set of assumptions and hierarchies in research. As a result, ‘evidence’ tends to be dominated by academic researchers (often influenced by the physical sciences and medical approaches) and neglects the views and experiences of people who use and work in health and social services. This article argues that policy and practice in mental health needs to shift focus from the value base of ‘evidence-based’ to that of ‘knowledge-based’.  Improvements can be made through meaningful engagement with a diverse cross-section of service users in order to properly address their needs and tailor appropriate services.  Survivor and service user researchers are building up an increasing volume of credible knowledge which is beginning to have an impact on policy and practice. This is based on new research values of acknowledging subjectivity, engagement and the validity and contribution of experiential knowledge.

Subject terms:
mental health problems, participatory research, service users, evidence-based practice;
Link:
Journal home page
ISSN print:
0265 511x

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