The National Lived Experience Awards are designed to celebrate service user-led initiatives in mental health, learning disability and autism services nationwide. Service users involved in the shortlisted nominations are invited to an exclusive awards ceremony on the 23rd of September, where the winners will be announced.
Together, a panel of head judges and lived experience judges, who attended the judging day on the 24th July, judged individual categories and shortlisted each anonymous nomination. The judges focused on co-production, service user involvement, and the uniqueness of each project. They made difficult shortlisting decisions with great care and dedication, ensuring that every submission was evaluated fairly and thoughtfully.
The Cygnet finalists are:
Hope and Positivity Award
Jamil
Cygnet Health Care
Jamil’s journey is a powerful story of recovery. After suffering multiple seizures whilst driving his car, Jamil was in a three-month coma. When he woke, he had no memory of who he was and unable to walk or talk. Jamil was then diagnosed with limbic encephalitis, a rare neurological condition. He later returned to the hospital where he was a patient, now as an Expert by Experience (EbE), using his lived experience to advocate for others. Jamil has become an influential voice for change, presenting at a brain injury conference and sharing his story on local radio to inspire hope for post-brain injury recovery. His compassionate work includes using his barbering skills to support others and helping staff understand the needs of culturally diverse patients. Jamil’s dedication has made him a beacon of hope and inspiration for his peers.
Outstanding Leadership Award
Georgia
Cygnet Health Care
Georgia, a service user at Cygnet Hospital Kewstoke, has been the driving force behind the success of the hospital’s on-site Recovery College Café. Since its opening in January 2024, she has volunteered six days a week, transforming the space into a welcoming hub for the community. Initially struggling with anxiety and OCD, Georgia overcame her fears to become a skilled barista and a confident leader. She now manages the café, trains new volunteers, monitors stock, and advocates for changes based on peer feedback. This therapeutic role has been a crucial part of her recovery, giving her a sense of purpose and improving her social skills. Georgia’s dedication and passion have been instrumental in keeping the cafe open and providing a supportive environment for others, showing that recovery is possible and that personal growth can be a powerful force for change.
Social Care Star Award
Robert – Cygnet Scotland Drama Group
Cygnet Social Care
Robert, a resident at Trinity Lodge, has been an exceptional leader and a driving force for co-production at the Cygnet Scotland Drama Club. Since 2023, he has passionately supported his peers in all aspects of performance. Robert’s dedication is evident in his choreography for the annual “Mamma Mia” show, where he patiently teaches dance steps and ensures everyone feels confident. He consistently goes above and beyond, not only practising his own role but also researching creative ideas for costumes and props online. His pivotal role as Danny in a past “Grease” production and his ongoing mentorship have inspired his peers, showcasing how his innate talent and desire to help others are transforming the drama club into a truly collaborative and supportive environment.
Beacon House
Cygnet Social Care
Beacon House exemplifies outstanding co-production by empowering residents to shape their environment and care. Through a “doing with” philosophy, the team ensures that lived experience actively drives meaningful involvement and tangible improvements. Residents lead initiatives such as monthly party planning, creating activity timetables, and designing their own living spaces. This includes an award-winning “Under the Sea” sensory room, a project born from a shared interest among residents. This collaborative approach extends to daily life, from choosing decorations to planning holidays. By consistently seeking resident feedback and transparently showing how their input leads to real change, Beacon House fosters a culture of independence, community, and well-being. This model proves that a resident-led environment can significantly enhance quality of life and deliver truly personalised care.
Hartnell’s Café
Cygnet Social Care
Hartnell’s Café is a brand-new social enterprise in Lockerbie, opened by residents of Trinity Lodge and Trinity House, to benefit adults with learning disabilities and the wider community. Named in memory of a former resident, the café provides invaluable work experience and skills training for residents. Individuals such as George, Richard, and Nigel work voluntarily, gaining hands-on experience in customer service, food preparation, and money handling. These roles not only build confidence and skills for future employment but also allow residents to give back to the local community that has supported them. The café has been a great success, with customers becoming regulars. This initiative is a powerful example of co-production, community engagement, and empowerment.
Kieran
Cygnet Social Care
Kieran has achieved a remarkable journey to overcome a significant personal challenge. Inspired by his love for sunshine and water, the team at Cherry Tree House and Kieran’s family, helped make his dream of a holiday abroad a reality. Kieran, who lives with moderate learning disabilities and autism, was particularly challenged by waiting, his main trigger. The team meticulously planned the trip to Spain, securing fast-track airport access and creating social stories to prepare him. Despite unexpected challenges at the airport, including a security search and a two-hour baggage delay, Kieran’s resilience was extraordinary. He handled the setbacks with incredible calmness, surpassing all expectations. The holiday was a huge success, strengthening his confidence and instilling in him a new-found tolerance for waiting. The holiday was such a success, they are booking another trip. Kieran’s courage in facing his biggest challenge demonstrates his incredible personal growth and makes him an inspiration to others.
You can view all of the 2025 finalists and read their inspiring nominations here.