A digital approach to peer led recovery and social connection to address substance use/and or mental health challenges

Introduction To Better Together Research Project: Better Together was formed in March of 2020 as a direct response to the COVID-19 outbreak, to provide recovery support including social connection and personal resources to those who needed it.  This collaborative 2.5 year research project was set up by the Southeast Regional Drug and Alcohol Taskforce Wexford Substance Misuse Team, South East Technological University, Community Based Drugs Initiative and people with lived experience. This research project was an opportunity to engage those with lived experience as active researchers. Research Aim: This study explores the experience of people who have used Better Together to avail of support during and post COVID 19 with substance use and or/mental health challenges.  Research Objectives   Measure the presence of six principles of co-production in the Better Together online support group  What is the impact on community connection, personal resources and functioning for all those participating in the Better Together online support group?  What role does Better Together have within the recovery community?  What is the value of co-production in the Better Together online support group?  Research Approach: Mixed method approach – online surveys and online focus group  Significant research findings   66% of Better Together participants are women; this is not in line with national service user demographics which reveal that men make up 78% of those attending drug and alcohol services, with women accounting for 28%. 92% of participants reported increased engagement with Better Together since COVID-19 restrictions were lifted. 86.4% reported a decrease in episodes of relapse or self-harm. 80.4% reported an increased engagement with appointments. 97% expressed improved social and emotional capabilities. 94% expressed an improved feeling of connection.  Achieved Outcomes: Research validated the importance of an online recovery model during and post COVID –19. ‘I had nowhere else to turn to. Every door was locked and every phone unanswered. Only Better Together was there for me’ (Participant Quote). It highlighted a lack of social and community connections.  Innovation outcomes: Completed research project from ethics to analysis online and met once in person for data analysis workshop. Better Together is an innovative service which responds to isolation and disconnection as it removes the requirement for travelling to and from appointments, time off from work and childcare constraints.Research Outcomes: Minister Hildegarde Naughton will launch Better Together Online recovery community and research findings on February 23rd, 2024. Secured funding to write a publication, attend international conferences and run a collaborative gender specific conference in March 2024 Conclusion:   This research project challenges traditional research approaches and hierarchies and recognises individuals prior learning and experiences as valuable within research and policy.