This article describes ResearchNet, a project based within the Oxleas Foundation NHS Trust that involves service users and carers in research as a means of supporting recovery. A key element of their approach to service user and carer research is to combine volunteering and network building.

Purpose-The purpose of this paper is to share the empowering journey of Kim Noble, an artist who has Dissociative Identity Disorder, a condition formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder. Design/methodology/approach-An overview of the social inclusion aspects of Kim Noble's artistic projects are explored via a detailed interview. Findings-Far from being just a creative tool for self-expression, art is a powerful means of regaining control as a service user and of connecting members of the public who would not ordinarily unite. Originality/value-Valuable for commissioners and service users to see how arts can promote recovery, all other material on this artist has concentrated only on her condition and not how art has promoted social inclusion.