Bridging the gap: from service user to service provider

The purpose of this paper is to share the author’s personal experiences as both a service user for the past 10 years and becoming a professional working in the same field. This paper aims to provide an insight into some of the barriers faced relating to support and procedures, as well as provide advice and guidance to service users and professionals.

This paper is designed primarily as a narrative; a first-person approach is taken.

Advice and reflections for service users is given as well as guidance for professionals.

This paper is a narrative of an individual’s personal experiences and observations therefore providing a unique outlook. This paper contributes to both service users who may feel unsure about or overwhelmed by their treatment and their involvement in decisions, as well as professionals trying to develop their understanding and awareness of less thought about needs for autonomy for service users and improving their practice.