Values and methodologies for social research in mental health

Although social research in the field of mental health is still a relatively underdeveloped area, its importance is becoming increasingly recognised for the delivery of an effective recovery-oriented mental health service in line with the National Service Framework for Mental Health. However, many service users, carers and practitioners feel that they have not been properly involved in influencing or participating in research. They have found that it has not always asked the right questions, or asked them in the right way, so as to produce findings that actually helped to make a difference for them. Our aim is to address this by developing a foundation for social research that ensures that it fits better with their values, aspirations and concerns.