Lived Experience Co-Researchers – support program for carers of people with anxiety
The project
Anxiety disorders affect around 17% of Australians each year, and can place a heavy burden not only on the individual but also their families and carers. This research project aims to develop a psychoeducation intervention specifically for carers of individuals with anxiety disorders. Using a co-design approach, the intervention will be developed for in-person and online delivery, and will aim to reduce carer burden, increase knowledge and self-efficacy, and improve wellbeing.
The involvement opportunity
The research team are seeking two carers or individuals with lived experience (as carers or consumers) of anxiety disorders to join them as co-researchers. You will:
- Help the researchers co-design study materials, including information sheets and interview guides
- Provide input on the development of the intervention
- Help shape recruitment strategies and participant materials
- Assist in the translation of findings (e.g. reviewing summaries or manuals)
You will supported in contributing meaningfully to the project and will be recognised as co-researchers in relevant publications and presentations.
Skills and experience
You need to have lived experience as:
- A carer or someone with an anxiety disorder (current or past)
- Someone with personal experience of an anxiety disorder who has received informal care/support
You don’t need research experience – the research team are looking for people who can reflect on their experiences and share insights openly.
Confidence using email and attending online meetings will be helpful.
The research team is Perth-based, but are open to carers and consumers from across Western Australia due to online meeting options.
Other information
There will be 3-4 meetings across the next 18 months (June 2025 – December 2026).
Each meeting will run for 1-1.5 hours.
Meetings will be held online (Microsoft Teams), although in-person meetings are available in Perth if preferred.
There may be options to be involved in later stages (e.g. reviewing manuals and writing additional interview guides), depending on availability and interest.
Lived Experience Co-Researchers will receive an honorarium of $37.50/hour.
Orientation and ongoing support will be provided, as well as flexible scheduling to support your involvement.
Closing date: 4 July 2025