People with Lived Experience of Severe Asthma

The British Thoracic Society (BTS) and the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN), part of Healthcare Improvement Scotland plan to produce a new guideline on specialist interventions for patients with severe asthma. SIGN is currently looking for members of the public and people with lived experience to join a multidisciplinary group responsible for developing this guideline.

Your insights - whether from personal experience or caring for someone with asthma will help ensure the guideline reflects what matters most to those affected. If you are interested in contributing or would like to learn more, we would be delighted to discuss this opportunity with you. Please email karen.graham2@nhs.scot

Experience required

We do not ask for particular skills and experience but we ask that you have some of the following:

• Direct experience of the condition (eg as someone who has or has had the condition, or the carer or family member of someone who has the condition)
• An interest in improving people’s experience of healthcare
• Time to commit to the work of group (eg attend meetings and comment on guideline drafts)
• A willingness to convey the views of people with lived experience not represented on the group
• The ability to put views across clearly, constructively and sensitively, taking into account other people’s responsibilities, views and experiences
• A willingness to become familiar with medical terms and phrases
• Some experience of working in groups
• Good communication and team working skills
• Enthusiasm and commitment

Training details

There is an induction programme for volunteers. It includes an introduction to the work of SIGN and the Evidence Directorate within Healthcare Improvement Scotland. You will also meet the Chair of the guideline group and the Programme Manager before you attend any group meetings. Training sessions on methods and developing information for the public is offered.

You will be supported by our Public Involvement staff. You are encouraged to seek support if you feel unable to carry out a task or need to discuss any aspect of your role. We will seek to provide any required training, and you will not be expected to do anything that you feel unable to.

Restrictions

Minimum age: 18

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