What Is The WSX LEAG?
The WSX Lived Experience Advisory Group (LEAG) is a unique network of people with lived or living experience of mental health challenges. We work together to challenge, influence, and improve local mental health services across West Sussex.
As an independent group, our mission is to create better more inclusive mental health support by co-producing solutions with local partners, including the NHS and voluntary organisations.
There are three LEAGs in Sussex – Brighton & Hove, East Sussex, and West Sussex. Every two months, we come together as SCALE (Sussex Co-production and Lived Experience Network) to share ideas, learn, and collaborate on ongoing projects.
CAPITAL Charity host the WEST LEAG and are the commissioned organisation to co-ordinate the programme.
Our members come from diverse backgrounds and bring valuable lived experience of mental health. You might also hear us referred to as Experts by Experience (EBEs).
We are a friendly, well-established group that has been running for over three years and we’re always looking for new members to join us in shaping a fairer, brighter future for mental health care.
What Do We Do?
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- Work alongside NHS Sussex to ensure lived experience voices shape mental health service transformation.
- Advise on commissioning decisions and influence changes that matter.
- Collaborate with other lived experience networks to improve communication and coordination across Sussex.
What Have We Achieved So Far?
- Co-produced and delivered training for new members.
- Provided input on the Electronic Staff Record (ESR) system.
- Currently advising on the development of Neighbourhood Mental Health Teams (NMHTs).
- Over 800 Lived Experience hours supported in West Sussex in 2024 – 2025 and 169 meetings with LEAG members attendance.
- Set-up, delivered and evaluated a peer led trauma group for the LEAG.
- Supported the co-production of the WSx Mental Health Joint Strategic Needs Assessment.
- Involvement and influence over MHSS tender principles, specification and evaluation.
- ‘Change The Language’ project and guide – 2 years work launched and guide now being shared across the system.
- Co-production Discussion Forums – 10-20 people attending each month.
2024-2025 West Sussex LEAG Impact Report
This new report includes information about:
- LEAG Membership
- Activities from the last year
- LEAG and SCALE network topics
- LEAG aims for 24-25
- Key achievements in West Sussex and across Sussex
- LEAG impact and member feedback
- Next steps
What Can You Expect As A Member?
- Learn about mental health services in Sussex and how they work.
- Get support to share your lived experience in meaningful ways.
- Opportunities to influence and innovate in mental health services.
- Paid opportunities for attending meetings and other activities (where specified).
- Build friendships, confidence, and skills.
- Volunteering opportunities and pathways to progress.
- Be part of an inclusive, empowering community making a real difference.
While paid work isn’t guaranteed, we aim to create and share as many opportunities as possible.
LEAG Easy Read Document & Flyer
Download our easy read document or flyer below.
CAPITAL provides a unique safe space for my voice to be heard. The meetings are warm, welcoming, non-corporate and non judgmental.
LEAG Member Anonymous
Ready To Apply?
Please scan the QR code to view our online enquiry form.
Complete the form and a member of the co-production team will contact you shortly.
If you need any support please contact us below.
Please note this is for LEAG membership, not CAPITAL membership.
Contact information
Coproduction Lead
Lydia Taylor (Pronouns: She/Her)
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 07562943693 (Friday only) or 01243 869662