Understanding the power of personal experience in creating meaningful, inclusive change.
Experts By
Experience
Lived experience recognises the value of knowledge and insight gained through real-life experience. It brings perspectives that cannot be learned through theory alone.
It is expertise shaped by real life.
Real Insight
It helps us understand what truly works, what doesn’t, and where change is needed.
True Inclusion
It guides us in creating activities, services and spaces that are genuinely accessible, welcoming and empowering.
Meaningful Change
It influences everything we do — from programme design and delivery to strategy and policy.
Lived Experience isn’t an “add-on”, or “case study”. It is expertise grounded in reality, context and everyday life, and it is central to how we think, plan and act.
Why Lived
Experience
Matters
Lived experience helps us better understand people, systems and barriers. It creates opportunities to learn, reflect and shape more inclusive experiences together, where people feel seen, valued, and included.
Reflects real needs
It ensures programmes are shaped by real priorities and aspirations — not assumptions.
Builds trust
It fosters understanding and credibility between professionals, participants and communities.
Drives innovation
It challenges traditional approaches and encourages more responsive, person-centred ways of working to help improve how sport and physical activity are delivered.
Amplifies voices
It challenges barriers and creates meaningful opportunities for underrepresented voices to influence health and community systems.
MAKING A POSITIVE IMPACT
We actively share meaningful involvement activities and learning opportunities so you can Play Your Part® and use your lived experience, strengths and skills to help shape what we do. To get involved, email us and tell us a bit about your experiences and interests.
Live
Opportunities
Help Design Essex’s New Research Outreach Bus
Help create two side-panel designs for a new Research Outreach Bus (ROB), part of the NHS Research Engagement Network.
They’re looking for ideas that celebrate Essex and its communities. You don’t need to be a designer, a simple idea or sketch is enough, and there’s even a chance to win a prize!
Here’s some inspiration to get started. For more information, contact Georgia Wills at georgia@sportforconfidence.com
Share your views and help Activity Alliance shape their policies
Celebrating
Achievements
