YouBelong Uganda recognizes the importance of learning from the lived experience of young people in recovery from mental health conditions and involving them in the co-production of policy and programs.

These groups inform the designing, development, implementation, and evaluation of YouBelong Uganda programs. As well, these groups develop into strong peer support discussions with ongoing formal and informal contact amongst groups members. The YCGs adopt a ‘sit and talk’ approach where a blanket is spread out, and young people sit in a circle and share their thoughts and their experiences and support one another. A YBU social work or mental health nurse facilities the discussion.

As a family carer brings the young persons to these gatherings usually held at a local health centre, simultaneous meetings are held with the young persons carers, in order to provide peer support, and to further inform the work of YouBelong Uganda.