Transforming researchers’ approach to ethnicity data

Research grant Benefits

Dr Yao has expressed that the Ember Lived Experience Research Grants are extremely valuable for lived experience researchers and the wider academic and research community for four key reasons. 

First, it is a flexible grant that supports researchers in their chosen field. In light of the often precarious nature of academic research (not great for mental health!), this is particularly helpful for early career researchers who are seeking to find their feet and direction post-PhD. 

Second, the grant encourages recipients to recognise and share their lived experience as a form of strength and expertise. This idea was fairly new to Dr Yao, who found it extremely empowering, having previously considered her mental health challenges a source of shame that was best hidden.

Third, in Dr Yao’s case, opening up about her lived experience unexpectedly resulted in opportunities to further her academic career by being invited to grant applications as a lived experience expert. 

Last but not least, encouraging researchers to share their mental health lived experience in academic settings is an important step towards addressing the stigmatisation of, and discrimination towards, people experiencing mental ill-health. Dr Yao is hopeful this will contribute to the university sector becoming a more safe, inclusive, and supportive space, where mental wellbeing is increasingly valued and prioritised.