Help improve health and wellbeing for people living with severe mental illness.

Researchers at Strategic Programme for Mental Health, working as part of NHS Wales Performance and Improvement, are looking for an Expert Advisor to help improve health services for people with severe mental illness (SMI). 

The role focuses on turning research into real improvements for people’s health. You will make sure services meet physical health needs and identify where more research is needed. You will work closely with universities, public health teams, and charities to create research together, ensuring that people’s lived experiences guide every decision. 

What experience do I need to help? 

• Lived experience of severe mental illness and using health and care services in Wales  

• Interest in improving services and reducing health inequalities  

• Ability to join strategic discussions and share your views  

• Experience chairing meetings is helpful  

• Previous involvement in research is useful but not essential 

What will I be asked to do? 

• Help lead a group that focuses on improving physical health for people with severe mental illness  

• Join regular online meetings to share your views and guide decisions  

• Attend two in-person workshops  

• Review documents and take part in short pre-meet discussions  

How long will I be needed for? 

• From December 2025 until March 2027  

• Monthly online meetings (about an hour each)  

• Short pre-meet discussions and document reviews between meetings  

• Four in-person workshops during the project (January, March, October/November 2026, and March 2027)  

• Around two hours per month plus workshop time 

What are some of the benefits for me? 

• Help make health care fairer for people with severe mental illness  

• Make sure lived experience shapes NHS services and research  

• Gain experience in research and public involvement  

• Build connections with professionals, researchers, and other lived experience partners  

• Be acknowledged in reports, publications, and at events  

• Receive support and training for your role 

 What support is offered? 

•   Cover reasonable travel expenses and additional carer or childcare costs,  

• Offer payment for time of £25.00 per hour (people can request less if they are in receipt of state benefits).  

Have a look at our guidelines for more information about this.  

If you are receiving any benefits, you can access confidential advice from the Benefits Advice Service for Involvement.   

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