Empowering Voices: The Humber Recovery and Wellbeing College Focus Group

In the pursuit of promoting mental health and creating a recovery-oriented environment, the Humber Recovery and Wellbeing College has established a powerful tool to ensure that everyone's voice is heard—the Focus Group. Meeting every two months in person across various locations in Hull and East Riding, as well as through MS Teams, this diverse group collaboratively discusses all aspects of recovery and the recovery college experience.

Composed of recovery college students, volunteers, the general public, staff members, and service users, the Focus Group serves as a platform for individuals from different backgrounds to come together and contribute their perspectives. By actively involving all stakeholders, the group aims to shape the recovery college in a way that truly reflects the needs and desires of the community it serves. The goal is to make the recovery college a shared endeavor, not just owned by the NHS, but by everyone.

One of the primary objectives of the Focus Group is to generate session and course ideas that can benefit the mental health of the community. By pooling their experiences and knowledge, the group members explore innovative approaches to recovery and well-being. Whether it's brainstorming new session themes, discussing potential resources, or co-producing e-courses and podcasts, the group is committed to cultivating an inclusive and diverse range of offerings.

The Focus Group recognizes the importance of community engagement and participation in shaping the recovery college's direction. By involving individuals with lived experience, the group ensures that the college's initiatives resonate with the wider community. In this way, the recovery college becomes a space where everyone's voice is valued and contributes to the improvement of knowledge and understanding around mental health.

Challenging the stigma associated with mental health is another crucial aspect of the Focus Group's mission. By openly discussing mental health topics, engaging in dialogue, and sharing personal experiences, the group aims to break down barriers and misconceptions. Through their collaborative efforts, they foster an environment where mental health is viewed with empathy, compassion, and respect.

As the summer term approaches, the Focus Group has exciting plans to further enhance community involvement. They will be holding bi-weekly MS Teams meetings titled "Let's Discuss your Recovery College." These meetings are open to all Focus Group members and anyone else who wishes to contribute and make a difference in how mental health is perceived and approached. The sessions provide an opportunity for individuals to share their ideas, concerns, and aspirations, creating a space for meaningful conversations that can shape the future of mental health support.

Let's Discuss your Recovery College

Platform: Microsoft Teams 

12/06/23 10:00- 11:30

26/06/23 10:00- 11:30

10/07/23 10:00- 11:30

24/07/23 10:00- 11:30

The Humber Recovery and Wellbeing College Focus Group is an embodiment of the belief that recovery and well-being are not solitary journeys but collective efforts. By actively involving various stakeholders, the group ensures that the recovery college remains inclusive, responsive, and reflective of the community it serves. Their commitment to challenging stigma and fostering understanding around mental health sets an example for others to follow.

If you are passionate about mental health, wish to contribute your ideas, or simply want to be part of a transformative movement simply contact us via e-mail to register your interest (HNF-TR.RecoveryCollege@nhs.net). The Focus Group welcomes your participation. Together, we can redefine how we view and interact with mental health, creating a brighter and more inclusive future for all. Join the conversation, make your voice heard, and help shape the recovery and well-being landscape of the Humber region.