'We Feel Invisible a Lot of the Time': Insights Into the Roles of Alcohol and Other Drug Lived and Living Experience...

The employment of alcohol and other drug lived and living experience (LLE) workers has increased. Although there is a growing literature on challenges faced by LLE workers, there remains a gap in understanding the unique challenges and facilitators of frontline workers in diverse settings. Additionally, it is unclear what unique barriers are faced by living experience workers.

Seven focus groups were recorded and transcribed with a total of 16 LLE worker participants. Themes from focus groups were analysed using thematic analysis. Two themes were identified: (i) experiences of validation; and (ii) supporting the workforce.

While most participants felt valued by clients, many spoke about experiences of stigmatisation by colleagues, which was evident for workers in hospital settings, possibly reflecting organisational models of care and their maturity in employing LLE workers. Living experience workers spoke about experiencing stigma that was underpinned by discriminatory policies and laws.

The findings and discussion highlight the challenges faced by the LLE workforce that may be underpinned by in-group and out-group identity, lack of support structures, a lack of role clarity, and several other factors. Addressing these issues is important for any organisation that employs or intends to employ alcohol and other drug lived or living experience workers.