Empowering Voices: Advocating for Genuine Inclusion of Experts by Experience (EbE) in Leadership Roles

In today's fast-changing world of service provision for asylum seekers and refugees in the United Kingdom, the voices of those with first-hand knowledge are more important than ever. These Experts by Experience contribute a level of experience and insight that cannot be obtained by formal qualifications alone. Despite the hyperbole around the significance of their efforts, the reality is stark: hurdles continue, preventing many from advancing to top roles in the sector. It is time to face these obstacles front on and argue for the actual inclusion of Experts by Experience in leadership positions. While sectors may emphasise the importance of their views and perspectives, their actions frequently fall short of giving genuine possibilities for progress. Instead, low-wage or part-time jobs are routinely advertised, continuing a cycle of marginalisation and tokenism. The truth is that the knowledge gained via personal experience is important and irreplaceable. This unique perspective cannot be taught in a classroom or through regular educational methods. Despite this, many utilise reasons such as a preference for native speakers or those with past job experience in the UK to dismiss persons with lived experience. This is more than just a problem of fairness; it is also about efficacy. Research has consistently demonstrated that organisations benefit tremendously from diverse leadership teams that reflect the populations they serve. By removing Experts by Experience from leadership positions, we miss out on the opportunity to create more responsive, sympathetic, and effective support systems for asylum seekers and refugees. It's time to confront the current quo and demand meaningful change. It's time to value lived experience and expertise over arbitrary criteria that simply serve to perpetuate the status quo. It is time to realise that leadership is defined not only by official qualifications or professional experience, but also by the ability to empathise, understand, and advocate for those in most need. So let us work together as a sector to ensure genuine inclusion and empowerment of Experts by Experience. Let us develop leadership opportunities that are accessible, equitable, and authentically representative of the communities we serve. Let us use the power of lived experience to spark positive change and create a more just and compassionate society for all.