Helix Cheshire and Merseyside Perinatal Mental Health Lead Provider Collaborative is proud to announce that we have been named runner up in the 2026 Picker Experience National Network Awards (PEN Awards 2026).
We were recognised in the Equity in Experience category for Born from Experience, a powerful film series created by members of the Helix Experts by Experience Forum.
Born from Experience was developed and led by Helix Experts by Experience, who shared their lived experience of perinatal mental health to help improve understanding, support and service design. Their insight has shaped Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Services across Cheshire and Merseyside, and their contributions have been central to the development of the new Seren Lodge Mother and Baby Unit.
Jen, Helix Expert by Experience, said: “It’s been an amazing day, so inspiring hearing all of the projects that are happening around the country and in so many different areas of work.
"Having our films recognised among the other projects in our category and beyond is fantastic, and knowing that our films will be shared with everyone here and further again is incredible. I am very proud to be part of Team Helix.”
Becky, Helix Expert by Experience, said: "It was a full circle moment to be standing there on the stage after creating the films. I would have never believed I would have had the opportunity to be involved in an opportunity like this."
The series consists of seven English‑language films and one Welsh‑language film. Each offers a distinct personal perspective on perinatal mental health, highlighting both challenges and messages of hope. The films explore themes including:
- Identifying signs of perinatal mental health difficulties
- Lived experience of a Mother and Baby Unit
- The impact of perinatal mental health on partners and families
- How professionals can provide meaningful, compassionate support
Funded by the Helix Lead Provider Collaborative, the films aim to support anyone seeking understanding or reassurance, as well as professionals working to improve perinatal mental health care.
The Equity in Experience category celebrates initiatives that address inequalities in experience and access, and that encourage inclusion. Born from Experience reflects these values by amplifying voices that are often unheard and helping shape services that respond to real needs.
Fiona Jenkins, Head of Experts by Experience, EmpowerED, Level Up, and Helix Lead Provider Collaboratives, said: "I am extremely proud of our Experts by Experience. The Born from Experience videos are incredible and will be shared nationally.
"There was competition from some incredible projects from across the country. Some applicants did not meet the final stage. Representatives attended from Hong Kong and United Emirates. It was a fantastic day."
Jenny Scott, Associate Director of Commissioning, said: “It’s an amazing achievement, and our Experts by Experience and the Helix Lead Provider Collaborative team should be incredibly proud.
“This recognition reflects the strength of true collaboration and highlights the vital role our Experts by Experience play in shaping services across Cheshire and Merseyside.
“Born from Experience helps us understand what matters most to the communities we serve. The films are powerful and emotional, and I encourage everyone to take the time to watch them.”
Tim Welch, Chief Executive, CWP, said: “Born from Experience demonstrates how insight from lived experience can inform service development at a system level.
“Being named runner‑up in the Equity in Experience category highlights the value of this approach and supports our continued work with partners to strengthen perinatal mental health care across Cheshire and Merseyside.”
The full Born from Experience series is available on our website and on YouTube. We encourage you to watch and share these films widely.