People before process
Processes matter, but they exist to support people and good decisions.
The person behind the lens
Gareth Edwards
What I hope is distinctive about my work is not only what I know, but how I notice, connect and make sense of things.
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Why I do this work
The space between intention and experience.
I am interested in the space between what a project intends to do and what people actually experience.
The LX Lens grew from more than 25 years of lived experience leadership, research, service design, evaluation, organisational change and practical work across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.
It also grew from being on more than one side of systems: as someone with personal and loved-ones’ experience, and as a peer, advocate, researcher, evaluator, government adviser, service architect, CEO, national director, programme leader, academic and independent consultant.
Principles that guide the work
Thoughtful challenge without theatre.
Influence over attendance
A seat at the table is not the same as meaningful influence.
Curiosity before certainty
I begin with questions rather than conclusions.
Evidence includes experience
Strong decisions use research, data, operational knowledge and lived experience together.
Support is part of the method
Preparation, access, choice, safety, consent, payment and emotional support shape the quality of participation.
Progress over performance
I am less interested in the right language than an honest and useful next step.
Credentials at a glance
Depth behind the simplicity.
- Lived and living experience leadership and strategy
- Co-production, co-design, participation and influence
- Service review, evaluation and evidence synthesis
- Service architecture and organisational transformation
- Qualitative research and shared sense-making
- Peer workforce development and capability
- Human rights, stigma and social inclusion
- Mental health, AOD, suicide prevention, housing and public services
- Plain-language writing, facilitation and strategic communication
- Executive, academic, service-design and consultancy roles
A good lens does not tell you what to see. It helps you see more clearly.
Work with Gareth
Bring another perspective into your project.
Start with the short enquiry form or email gareth@thelxlens.com.