What is Co-Production & Involvement?
Co-production occurs when people with lived experience of mental health challenges and carers (Experts by Experience) work together with paid staff within an organisation (Experts by Training) as equal partners in a way that is meaningful and effective from the outset. It follows a process of co-creation and shared decision making that is jointly owned by all involved.
The best decisions are those where different perspectives have come together. The real-life lived experience perspective of mental illness is key alongside the collective “professional” perspective when taking a co-productive approach.
- Co-production brings the lived experience information people share in relation to systems and services – what is helpful, not so helpful, gaps, and ideas for improvement.
- Co-production puts the priorities of people and communities at the centre of considerations and decisions around access, experience, outcomes and inequalities.
- Co-production achieves a shared vision that transforms the balance of power and resources to a position of equal ownership.
- Sequoia supports people with lived experience to gain skills and confidence within an Expert by Experience role. We facilitate reflective meetings and offer individual coaching sessions so they can share and learn together.
Co-Production at Sequoia
Co-production has been at the heart of The Sequoia Service from the outset – from identifying the need, designing the service model to implementing delivery. Co-Production continues throughout Sequoia with the development of an Expert by Experience Team who are involved in reviewing and supporting the growth of the service and ensuring that it continues to meet the needs of those who access it.
Quote from an Expert by Experience-
"Co-production is giving people of all experiences and backgrounds the chance to turn an equal society (where everyone has the same chance) into an equitable society (where everyone has the same chance to succeed)".
Giving feedback
Giving feedback is another way to influence the service. We appreciate all feedback and want to hear what you have to say. Give feedback by visiting the feedback page of this website.