Lived experience matters for many reasons, not least of which is that only someone who has been through an experience knows the nuances and complexities of dealing with it. Listening to lived experience can raise awareness of multiple needs, reduce stigma and challenge stereotypes. 

This session will bring together the powerful personal stories of those who have lived through poor housing conditions and trauma and used their experience to campaign for change in the sector.

We will seek to ask: why should decision-makers listen to and learn from lived experience? How can we use these authentic voices to lead systems change in local services to make them better? How can we achieve a culture change where the lived experience is valued? This powerful session will highlight the importance of involving real experiences, stories and people from the beginning in every area of housing.