Published on: 7th October 2026
Saturday is World Mental Health Day and this year’s theme is ‘lived experiences heard: real voices, real change’
We were grateful to reflect on this theme with the return of our Human Library events, held recently at Stepping Hill and Tameside Hospital.
People with lived experience of inpatient mental health services (‘books’) shared their stories and gave others ('readers') the opportunity to listen, learn and ask questions in a safe and respectful environment.
The events sparked honest conversations to challenge stigma, increase understanding and turned lived experience into meaningful learning and service improvements.
Rob Baker, assistant involvement coordinator, said: “What made the Human Libraries such a success was their ability to bring organisational learning to life.
“Rather than learning about mental health through policies, presentations or procedures, participants learned directly from people with lived experience.
“These conversations challenged assumptions, encouraged reflection and created a deeper understanding of the realities people face, helping us build a more compassionate, person-centred culture across our services.”
Pictured (left to right): Ciara and Phil, two of the ‘books’; Sarah, the 'librarian'; Dan McLauchlan-Beresford and Rob Baker, from Tameside and Glossop involvement team.