Empowerment and Challenges of Lived Experience in a Navigator Role
Background: One of our Navigators, who was recruited specifically for her lived experience of navigating financial and social challenges in Islington, has shared valuable insights during her time in the role. Her experiences have shaped her ability to connect with residents and provide tailored support.
Experience and Impact: During her engagement with community members, the Navigator found that some of the issues they faced resonated deeply with her own past struggles. This allowed her to build strong rapport with residents, offering empathy and understanding that went beyond traditional support methods. She has been able to connect on a personal level, making residents feel seen and understood in a way that many professional services have not been able to achieve.
However, the work also brought to the surface some difficult memories and emotions tied to her own experiences. The Navigator shared that while she found the role immensely rewarding, it also required a careful balance of emotional resilience. She expressed that having access to mental health support, along with a supportive work environment, was crucial in helping her continue to serve effectively while maintaining her own well-being.
Key Insights: This case highlights the dual-edged nature of employing individuals with lived experience. On the one hand, their background enables them to provide a level of empathy and relatability that is invaluable to residents. On the other hand, it emphasises the need for comprehensive support systems for these employees, ensuring that their own experiences do not become a source of re-traumatisation.
The insights from this Navigator underscore the importance of considering both the strengths and vulnerabilities that come with employing those who have lived through similar challenges as the populations they serve. With the right support structures, these individuals can become powerful agents of change in tackling poverty and other systemic issues.