Published: March 18, 2024
Our funding partners MELDAP (Midlothian & East Lothian Drugs And Alcohol Partnership) have commissioned us to research how people in Mid and East Lothian with lived and living experience of drugs and alcohol use engage with the support services on offer.
Key to the study is the voice of the individuals using these services, often under-represented and seldom at the forefront. Their feedback will help inform the quality of the services on offer; pinpoint what might be missing; and identify what would make it easier to feel heard and included.
The goal of the research is to ensure that those who need, or have used, MELDAP services are actively involved in the decision-making process and how services are developed going forwards. In addition, feedback from partners, families and practitioners who work within the sector is also sought.
A diverse range of participatory tools, such as artmaking, interviews, discussion, questionnaires, feedback forms and mapping exercises, will be used to obtain qualitative and quantitative data, testimonials and lived experiences.
To get involved, you can complete this survey, or get in touch with Beth Carson on bethcarson@accesstoindustry.co.uk. We will be spending time in the community, and attending various meet-ups, in order to engage with as many people as possible. The survey will be open until the end of April.
Beth Farmer, head of research, says:
“I am aiming to speak to as many people as possible, in any setting they are comfortable in, to hear about their experiences, good and bad, as well as any suggestions they may have. I’m keen to ensure all feedback is passed onto MELDAP and that actions are taken and then communicated back to those who gave feedback. This part feels so important to me – letting people know what happens to their feedback and what actions are taken as a result. It’s been great to visit the recovery community in Mid and East Lothian and meet so many inspirational people, and get a sense of the support on offer to them, as well as how this has impacted their recovery. Everyone has been so keen to be involved in the project so far and is passionate about getting their voices heard regarding their experiences. Supporting others through their recovery by working with funders on developing services in the coming years is key to this project and I am excited to see how it evolves.”
You can learn more about our Mid and East Lothian service here.