At Aspire Recovery Connection, we are thrilled to announce that Sarah has been nominated for the prestigious Mental Health Coalition’s Lived Experience Award. Sarah’s tireless dedication to advocating for justice, human rights, and person-directed care has made a profound impact on the lives of those she supports. Her ability to transform lives through lived experience is truly inspirational.
A Champion for the Marginalised
One of Sarah’s most remarkable achievements has been her unwavering support for a community member who experienced chronic homelessness for over 30 years. This individual, repeatedly failed by traditional services, had developed a deep mistrust of the system. Yet Sarah, with persistence and compassion, broke through these barriers. She built a strong relationship based on mutual respect, consistently showing up and advocating for their right to stability and dignity.
Over time, Sarah’s relentless advocacy led to securing stable housing for this person, including a private rental. She not only helped them find a place to call home but also supported them through multiple housing inspections—successfully passing each one, something that once seemed out of reach. Sarah’s commitment went beyond just securing housing; she worked with their public trustee to ensure financial stability and partnered with mental health services to provide support in a voluntary, respectful way.
Person-Directed Care at Its Best
Sarah’s work exemplifies the principle of person-directed care, where the person is recognised as the expert of their own journey. She empowered this community member to make decisions about their recovery and healing, always respecting their autonomy. Her approach allowed them to engage with services in a way that felt safe and dignified, helping them avoid involuntary treatment orders and ensuring their mental health care was collaborative.
By honouring their personal experiences and choices, Sarah gave this person the space to regain control over their life. Her ability to deeply connect with people in challenging circumstances is what makes her work so impactful.
Supporting Through Crisis
Sarah’s commitment to this person didn’t end with housing and mental health support. She has been there during their most difficult times, including moments of intense personal distress. When this individual reached out to Sarah during a crisis, she responded immediately, providing the emotional and practical support they needed. Her consistent presence in these difficult moments has been a lifeline for the person she supports, helping them feel seen, heard, and cared for during their darkest times.
This is just one example of Sarah’s extraordinary dedication. Her compassion and persistence have helped this person avoid further trauma, providing them with the stability they once thought unattainable.
More Than Just Service Provision
Sarah’s work is not just about providing services—it’s about offering hope, stability, and a sense of belonging to those who have been marginalised and overlooked. Her nomination for the Mental Health Coalition’s Lived Experience Award is a celebration of her ability to make real, lasting change in the lives of people with lived experience.
At Aspire Recovery Connection, we are beyond proud to have Sarah as part of our team. Her commitment to social justice, human rights, and person-directed care makes her a beacon of hope in the mental health community. Her nomination reflects the profound difference one person can make when they lead with compassion and empathy.
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