UCLan is looking for volunteers with lived experiences of mental illness
Can you help the next generation of medical professionals?
The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) is looking for volunteers with lived experience of mental illness to share their experiences with cohorts of MBBS Medicine and Surgery students.
The volunteers will be asked to talk about their specific conditions and explain their previous interactions with mental healthcare professionals.
UCLan’s Dr Sridevi Sira Mahalingappa said: “It’s integral that our medical students learn from people who have lived experiences of mental illnesses because they will provide real-world insight into the issues people are dealing with.
"Being able to listen to them and ask direct questions will enhance the students understanding and enhance their training"
— UCLan’s Dr Sridevi Sira Mahalingappa
“Being able to listen to them and ask direct questions will enhance the students understanding and enhance their training. In addition, the volunteers will be able to provide vital feedback on the medical students’ communication skills.”
The virtual sessions will take place via Microsoft Teams on Fridays during term time. They will last for one hour and involve small groups of 10 students per session. Every session will be facilitated by a trained psychiatrist, who will lead the sessions and will be present to offer support as required.
All volunteers will be provided with a £20 voucher per session for giving up their time. If you are interested in taking part, please email Dr Sridevi Sira Mahalingappa.